The Finance Minister has responded firmly, stating that his legal team has officially informed the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) that the allegations against him are “unfounded.”
At a press conference held at the Grand Pacific Hotel, Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad emphasized that the claims do not have enough substance to justify any charges. His remarks follow a recent announcement by FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali, indicating that the newly appointed commissioner would make the final decision regarding his case.
Initially, Mr. Prasad faced potential charges for allegedly failing to disclose all assets, income, and liabilities prior to the last election. Francis Pulewai, the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC who oversaw the investigation, expressed disappointment at the circumstances, describing them as “sad.”
The investigation into Mr. Prasad’s behavior reportedly reached its conclusion under Ms. Pulewai’s direction, and he was set to be charged. However, following her resignation and the appointment of Ms. Malimali as FICAC Chief, the case is currently suspended.
In a related development, Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga, who is also under a FICAC complaint, labeled the accusations as “malevolent” on Wednesday. Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry and Unity Fiji Party leader Savenaca Narube have publicly criticized Ms. Malimali’s appointment, calling on FICAC to move forward with charges against Mr. Prasad.
In response, Mr. 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 is Mr. Prasad’s first direct reply to the criticisms concerning his FICAC case. He chose not to provide any further comments.