FORMER Fiji Broadcasting Corporation’s CEO Riyaz Sayed-Khaiyum’s civil case against the broadcaster will proceed to trial in November.
Justice Thushara Rajasinghe has fixed the matter for hearing on November 16, with both parties confirming they are ready to proceed.
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum is represented by lawyer Devanesh Sharma, who will call three witnesses, while FBC’s lawyer Ritesh Naidu is expected to call four.
The case concerns Mr Sayed-Khaiyum’s claim over the termination of his employment as FBC’s chief executive officer.
Mr Sharma maintained in court yesterday that his client should have been given reasons for his termination.
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum’s claim alleges his employment was terminated by the FBC board in January 2023 and that the termination was unlawful and unfair.
He alleges the termination was not related to poor performance or disciplinary misconduct, but because the new board did not want him to remain as chief executive.
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum is seeking damages arising from the termination, including losses relating to his employment and benefits.
The claim states that Mr Sayed-Khaiyum was employed under a three-year contract with an annual salary of $326,172.80 and that his employment was terminated before the expiry of the contract.
The trial is expected to hear evidence from witnesses across both sides before a ruling is made.
