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Former Chairman and Interim Director of the Higher Education Commission Fiji  Steven Chand appeared in the Suva Magistrates Court charged with corruption-related offences.

Chand faces a charge of one count of abuse of office and two counts of bribery.

It is alleged that between 23 May 2024 and 17 February this year ,Chand abused his position as Chairman and Interim Director of HECF to favour and facilitated the interests of Australian Vocational Management Pty Ltd , Australian Pacific Management & Training Pte Ltd  and persons associated with these entities, in securing recognition and registration with HECF.

The alleged conduct relates to Chand’s position as an independent consultant for AVM during his tenure as Chair of HECF.

It is further alleged that between 9 October and 2 December 2024,  Chand received two telegraphic transfers totalling $36,252.50 into a joint bank account.

The transfers were allegedly made by RJ Global Investment Pty Ltd.

In a separate allegation, between 10 December 2024 and 2 February this year  Chand received 16 telegraphic transfers totalling $286,215.59 into his personal bank account, also allegedly transferred by RJ Global Investment Pty Ltd.

FiCAC counsel informed the court that the first phase disclosures have been served.

The counsel made an application for the matter to be transferred to the High Court.

However, Defence Counsel, Hemendra Nagin, objected to the application, saying that the matter should not be transferred until the second phase disclosures had been served.

Chand was released on bail  under strict conditions.

He was also ordered to pay a $10,000 cash bail bond, provide two sureties, who were present in Court, and refrain from contacting any prosecution witnesses.

The Court also issued a stop departure order.

The matter has been adjourned to 10 December for mention to check on the second phase disclosures.