The Finance Minister has responded strongly, stating that his legal team has formally informed the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) that the allegations against him are “without merit.” At a press event held at the Grand Pacific Hotel, Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad emphasized that the claims do not hold enough weight to justify any charges.
This statement came on the heels of FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali’s recent announcement that a decision regarding Prasad’s case would be made solely by the newly appointed commissioner. Previously, Mr. Prasad was expected to face charges for allegations of failing to declare all his assets, income, and liabilities before the last election.
Francis Pulewai, the former Acting Deputy Commissioner of FICAC who was managing the investigation, voiced his disappointment over the situation, calling it “sad.” The investigation into Prasad’s conduct was reportedly concluded under Pulewai’s direction, and he was initially slated to be charged. However, after Pulewai’s resignation and Malimali’s appointment as FICAC Chief, the case is now on hold.
In the meantime, Justice Minister Siromi Turaga, who is also under FICAC scrutiny, characterized the accusations against him 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 the charges against Mr. Prasad.
In response to these criticisms, 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 Prasad’s first direct response to criticisms surrounding his FICAC case, although he declined to elaborate further.