The Former General Manager of Native Land Trust Board, Kalivati Bakani today pleaded not guilty to seven counts of abuse of office in the Suva Magistrate Court.

Bakani who was represented by Lawyer, Davinesh Sharma pleaded not guilty to all seven charges and preferred to go on trial.

Bakani is alleged to have approved the investment of extinct mataqali funds in various financial institutions without authority or approval.

It's alleged the funds should have rightfully gone to the Fijian Affairs Board to be used exclusively for the benefit of native Fijians.

Magistrate Amani Rokotuinaviti has adjourned the case to the 21st of next month when the trail will begin.

Meanwhile, Former Prime Minister, Laisenia Qarase also appeared in the Suva Magistrate Court this morning charged with three counts of abuse of office.

Court proceedings have been adjourned to the 2nd of next month for mention as both parties asked the Court for more time to go over the case.