The Minister for Finance has responded firmly, stating that his legal team has formally informed the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) that the allegations against him are “baseless.” During a statement at the Grand Pacific Hotel, Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad claimed that the accusations did not have sufficient substance to justify any charges.
This statement comes in light of FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali’s recent announcement that a decision regarding Prasad’s case will be made solely by the newly appointed commissioner. Prasad was originally expected to face charges for allegedly failing to declare all assets, income, and liabilities prior to the last election.
Francis Pulewai, the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC who was overseeing the investigation, expressed disappointment over the situation, calling it “sad.” Reportedly, the investigation into Prasad’s conduct was completed under Pulewai’s leadership, and he was set to face charges. However, following Pulewai’s resignation and Malimali’s recent appointment as Chief of FICAC, the case is currently on hold.
Additionally, Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga, who is also under FICAC scrutiny, described the allegations on Wednesday as “an act of malice.” Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry and Unity Fiji Party leader Savenaca Narube have criticized Malimali’s appointment, urging FICAC to move forward with charges against Prasad.
In response to their comments, Prasad stated, “I don’t need to respond to the likes of Chaudhry and Narube. My lawyers have made it clear to FICAC that there is no basis for a charge.” This marks Prasad’s first direct reply to the criticism surrounding his case with FICAC. He chose not to offer any further comments.