The Fiji Labour Party has urged the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) to promptly charge Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad for allegedly filing false declarations with the Registrar of Political Parties.
FLP Leader Mahendra Chaudhry stated that the case against Prasad was forwarded to FICAC by the Registrar due to violations of the Political Parties Act. He claimed that FICAC’s investigations were completed, but efforts to charge Prasad were halted following the controversial appointment of Barbara Malimali as FICAC Commissioner and the resignation of Francis Puleiwai, the Acting Assistant Deputy Commissioner previously overseeing the investigations.
Chaudhry noted that Puleiwai had approved the charges, indicating in writing that Prasad was being charged on multiple counts for breaching a specific section of the Political Parties Act. The former Prime Minister expressed concern regarding the troubling developments at FICAC, highlighting the potential implications for the rule of law’s integrity.
He emphasized the importance of the Malimali-led FICAC proceeding with the charges to uphold its credibility as an independent institution. Chaudhry insisted that justice must be served for Prasad, who he believes has evaded accountability for an extended period.
Additionally, he pointed out that Malimali should step aside due to her own investigation by FICAC for abuse of office, allowing for an unbiased process. Chaudhry also called for the Commission to swiftly investigate six other Cabinet ministers implicated in complaints.
He remarked on the public’s demand for justice, noting a significant backlash on social media regarding the situation at FICAC, criticizing the authorities’ lack of adherence to the rule of law. In response, Deputy Prime Minister Prasad stated that his lawyers have contacted FICAC to deny the allegations and advised that all inquiries be directed to his legal team.