The Fiji Labour Party is urging the Prime Minister to reassign Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, to the backbenches. This request follows the charges brought against Prasad by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) for allegedly submitting false statutory declarations to the Registrar of Political Parties.
In a statement, FLP Leader Mahendra Chaudhry emphasized the need for Prasad to be replaced as the head of the Fiji Delegation to the upcoming COP 29 in Azerbaijan in November due to the ongoing legal issues. Chaudhry reminded that the Prime Minister had previously indicated he would not hesitate to demote Prasad if he faced charges from FICAC.
Chaudhry noted that Prasad was formally charged with multiple violations of the Political Parties Act on September 5, and was scheduled to appear in court. He suggested that this situation was influenced by the swift appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of FICAC on the same day, characterizing it as a political maneuver to prevent Prasad’s arrest.
According to Chaudhry, the timing of Malimali’s appointment raises significant concerns. He pointed out that recent developments have led the Prime Minister to commit to establishing a Board of Inquiry to address the questions surrounding Malimali’s appointment. The Prime Minister acknowledged the need for an investigation into Malimali’s previous resignation from the Electoral Commission and subsequent role as FICAC Commissioner, stating that it is vital for upholding the integrity of the process.
Chaudhry expressed anticipation for the Prime Minister to act promptly on the matter, warning that any delays in launching the proposed inquiry could erode public trust in FICAC as an independent entity.