An accounts officer with Water Rates Office charged with one count of abuse of office today appeared in the Suva Magistrates Court.

It is alleged that on 19th December, 2003 Usaia Daunivalu approved the withdrawal of over $300,000 in outstanding water rates for the account for CIG Fiji Limited without the approval of Finance Minister.

Daunivalu who is represented by Akuila Naco today pleaded not guilty to the charge of one count of abuse of office and his lawyer made an application for adjournment so counsels could sort out contentious issues.

The matter has been adjourned till 24th April.