The High Court in Suva has asked for more time to deliver its judgment in the trial of former attorney-general Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and former supervisor of elections Mohammed Saneem, with the matter adjourned to March 30.
Justice Salesi Temo told parties in Suva that additional time is needed to carefully consider the issues raised during the trial and final submissions before finalising his decision.
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum is charged with one count of abuse of office while Mr Saneem faces a charge of receiving a corrupt benefit.
The charges relate to the approval and receipt of a tax relief arrangement valued at more than $50,000 during Mr Saneem’s tenure as supervisor of elections.
The State alleges that the tax benefit was approved without the required constitutional clearances, arguing that established procedures were bypassed.
Defence lawyers have maintained that the arrangement was lawful and formed part of contractual employment entitlements.
The case has attracted significant public attention given the senior positions previously held by both accused and the constitutional issues canvassed during proceedings.
Both Mr Sayed-Khaiyum and Mr Saneem remain on bail as they await the court’s ruling.
