The Finance Minister has reacted strongly, stating that his legal team has officially informed the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) that the claims against him are “without merit.”
During a speech at the Grand Pacific Hotel, Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad maintained that the allegations lack the severity necessary to justify any charges.
This statement comes on the heels of FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali’s recent announcement that a verdict regarding his case will rest solely with the newly appointed commissioner.
Mr. Prasad was initially poised to face 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 responsible for the investigation, expressed disappointment at the current state of affairs, describing it as “sad.”
The investigation into Mr. Prasad’s actions was reportedly wrapped up under Ms. Pulewai’s supervision, and charges were imminent. However, with Ms. Pulewai’s resignation and Ms. Malimali’s subsequent appointment as FICAC Chief, the case has been put on pause.
Meanwhile, Justice Minister Siromi Turaga, who is also facing a FICAC complaint, labeled the accusations made against him on Wednesday as “an act of malice.”
Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry and Unity Fiji Party leader Savenaca Narube have 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 marks Mr. Prasad’s first direct address regarding the criticisms of his case with FICAC, and he opted not to comment further.