The Fiji Labour Party has urged the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) to 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 referred to FICAC by the Registrar due to violations of the Political Parties Act. Chaudhry claimed that while FICAC had completed its investigations, attempts to bring Prasad to court were disrupted following the contentious appointment of Barbara Malimali as FICAC Commissioner and the resignation of Francis Puleiwai, the Acting Assistant Deputy Commissioner overseeing the investigations.
Chaudhry revealed that Puleiwai had already sanctioned charges against Prasad, indicating multiple breaches of the Political Parties Act. He expressed concern over the recent developments at FICAC, questioning the integrity of the rule of law in light of these issues.
The former Prime Minister emphasized that it is crucial for Malimali-led FICAC to act on the charges to maintain its credibility as an independent body. He insisted that Prasad must be held accountable and suggested that Malimali, who was under investigation by FICAC for abuse of office, should step aside during her own investigation to avoid interference.
Chaudhry also called for swift action from FICAC regarding complaints against six other Cabinet ministers. He noted that public demand for justice is growing, evidenced by widespread outrage expressed on social media regarding the situation at FICAC and the apparent reluctance of authorities to uphold the rule of law.
In response, Deputy Prime Minister Prof Biman Prasad stated that his lawyers have formally rejected the allegations and have referred all inquiries to his legal representation.