Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad has threatened to take legal action against the Fiji Labour Party unless Mahendra Chaudhry issues an apology and provides reasonable compensation.
This warning follows Chaudhry’s call for accountability regarding a $200,000 grant allocated for Girmit celebrations, which was given to a discredited organization with ties to his wife and a close political ally who were trustees at the time.
Chaudhry stated that he received a letter from Professor Prasad’s attorneys, Sherani & Co, demanding the removal of all references to the Girmit funding and Prasad’s involvement from the FLP’s website, labeling them as “false and defamatory.” He noted that their legal team is handling the situation.
“Such threats will not prevent us from seeking accountability from the minister regarding the $200,000 given to an organization that was deregistered in 2022 for not submitting audited accounts and annual reports since 2017,” Chaudhry said.
He emphasized that there were other payments allegedly made to close associates of the minister that require explanation. Chaudhry recalled that the government had promised the public that comprehensive accounts would be made available, especially amid the controversy that arose last year.
“Now, 18 months later, we are still waiting for the promised audited accounts. Labour will continue to advocate for transparency and accountability,” he asserted.
Chaudhry highlighted that the public deserves an explanation regarding these matters, noting the irregular way in which the 2023 Girmit celebration funds were allegedly distributed. He reaffirmed Labour’s demand for detailed accounting of all funds allocated to individuals and organizations involved.