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 multiple false declarations with the Registrar of Political Parties.
In a recent statement, FLP Leader Mahendra Chaudhry indicated that Prof Prasad’s case was initially referred to FICAC by the Registrar for violating the Political Parties Act. Chaudhry remarked that although FICAC completed its investigation, plans to charge Prasad were disrupted by the controversial appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner and the resignation of Francis Puleiwai, the Acting Assistant Deputy Commissioner overseeing the inquiry.
Chaudhry noted that Puleiwai had approved charges against Prasad, informing him in writing about multiple breaches of Section 24(1)(b)(iv) of the Political Parties Act. The former Prime Minister expressed concern over the troubling events surrounding FICAC and their implications for the integrity of the rule of law.
He emphasized that it is now crucial for Malimali-led FICAC to proceed with the charges to maintain its credibility as an independent body. Chaudhry asserted that Prasad must face accountability and called for Malimali to step aside in light of her own pending investigation by FICAC for alleged abuse of office.
Additionally, he urged FICAC to expedite investigations into six other Cabinet ministers who are also facing complaints. Chaudhry highlighted the public’s calls for justice, as demonstrated by widespread criticism on social media regarding the recent developments at FICAC and the hesitance of those in power to uphold the rule of law.
In response, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Prof Biman Prasad stated that his lawyers have communicated with FICAC to reject the allegations against him. He has directed all inquiries on the subject to his legal team.