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 submitting false declarations to the Registrar of Political Parties.
FLP Leader Mahendra Chaudhry stated that the case against Prasad was initially referred to FICAC by the Registrar due to violations of the Political Parties Act. He claimed that while FICAC concluded its investigations, efforts to charge Prasad were disrupted by the contentious appointment of Barbara Malimali as FICAC Commissioner and the resignation of Francis Puleiwai, the Acting Assistant Deputy Commissioner who oversaw the investigations.
Chaudhry noted that Puleiwai had previously approved charges against Prasad, citing multiple breaches of S24(1) (b) (iv) of the Political Parties Act. The former Prime Minister expressed concern over the troubling developments at FICAC, which he believes threaten the integrity of the rule of law.
He emphasized that it is imperative for the FICAC, under Malimali’s leadership, to move forward with the charges to maintain its reputation as an independent body. Chaudhry insisted that justice must be served for Prasad, who has allegedly evaded accountability for too long.
Furthermore, he called for Malimali to step aside due to her own investigation for abuse of office, to ensure that the inquiry against her can proceed without interference. He also urged FICAC to quickly continue its investigations into six other cabinet ministers who are facing complaints.
Chaudhry highlighted the public demand for justice, which is reflected in the widespread criticism on social media regarding the situation at FICAC and the perceived inaction of those in power.
In response, Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad stated that his legal team has formally rejected the allegations and that all inquiries should be directed to his legal counsel.