The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, has issued a warning of possible legal action against the Fiji Labour Party unless Mahendra Chaudhry issues an apology and pays reasonable compensation.
This ultimatum follows Chaudhry’s call for accountability regarding a $200,000 grant allocated for Girmit celebrations, which was given to a discredited organization where both his wife and a close ally were trustees at the time.
Chaudhry confirmed that he received a letter from Professor Prasad’s legal representatives, Sherani & Co., insisting that all references to the Girmit funds and Professor Prasad’s involvement be removed from the FLP’s website, labeling them as “false and defamatory.” He stated that his legal team is addressing the situation.
Chaudhry emphasized that such threats would not stop them from seeking accountability from the minister for the funds allocated to an organization deregistered in 2022 for failing to submit audited accounts and annual reports since its formation in 2017. He also mentioned the need for explanations regarding other payments supposedly made to close associates of the minister.
He pointed out that the government had promised the public further details about the funds allocated, especially during the peak of the controversy last year, but 18 months later, those audited accounts are still pending. Chaudhry affirmed that the Labour Party would persist in demanding transparency and accountability regarding these financial matters.
He reiterated that it is crucial for the public to receive clarity about these issues, particularly due to the irregularities surrounding the disbursement of the 2023 Girmit celebration funds, prompting Labour to demand a detailed account of all payments made to individuals and organizations.