Variation hearing postponed | CJ sends well wishes to Sayed-Khaiyum

Listen to this article:

(Left to Right) Chief Justice Salesi Temo and former attorney-general Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. Picture: FIJI TIMES ONLINE

Chief Justice Salesi Temo has extended his wishes for a swift recovery to former attorney-general Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, who was admitted to Lautoka Aspen Hospital on Monday morning.

A hearing on Mr Sayed-Khaiyum’s bail variation application — to allow travel overseas for medical treatment was scheduled for yesterday, but has been postponed.

Mr Sayed-Khaiyum, who faces a count of abuse of office, is charged alongside the former supervisor of elections, who is charged with receiving a corrupt benefit.

Lawyer Gul Fatima informed the court that the former A-G collapsed on July 14 and was referred to Lautoka Aspen Hospital by Heart International because of a stroke and heart complications, as stated in a medical certificate.

This was in response to Justice Temo’s observation that the most reputable heart hospital was in Nadi, with “success stories”.

Ms Fatima said doctors had yet to indicate a discharge date since Mr Sayed-Khaiyum was examined on July 15 (Tuesday) and required reassessment.

Defence will respond to the DPP’s affidavit opposing the bail variation once the medical results are available.

Justice Temo concluded: “Wishing him a speedy recovery so we can get on with the trial.”

The trial will begin on September 15. The court will be updated on Mr Sayed-Khaiyum’s health on the next hearing date.

The matter will be recalled on August 1.

In the meantime, Mr Saneem’s bail has been extended.