The High Court in Suva has not yet scheduled a date to address former deputy prime minister and finance minister, Prof. Biman Prasad’s request for a permanent stay of proceedings. This update was relayed by his attorney, Richard Naidu of Munro Leys, after Prof. Prasad entered a not-guilty plea in the Suva Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
Prof. Prasad is facing allegations of failing to comply with statutory disclosure mandates, dating back to 2015. Specifically, the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) claims that on December 30, 2015, he, as an officer of the National Federation Party—registered under the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding, and Disclosures) Act 2013—failed to disclose his directorship in Platinum Hotels & Resorts Pte Ltd in his annual declaration submitted to the Registrar of Political Parties, violating Section 24(1)(b)(iv) of the Act. Additionally, he is accused of providing false information in a statutory declaration by neglecting to mention this directorship.
Naidu noted that the permanent stay application was filed last week, although the High Court has yet to determine when the first call will occur. He also expressed his intention to request an interim stay on the proceedings in the Magistrate’s Court until the High Court deliberates on the permanent stay application.
The prosecutor for FICAC, Joseph Works, did not object to Prof. Prasad traveling overseas for a week starting December 20, 2025, emphasizing that the former minister has adhered to all travel requirements, including giving two weeks’ notice and submitting his itinerary.
Magistrate Yogesh Prasad reminded both parties that if the case proceeds to trial, it will follow the standard queue, with hearings anticipated to commence in March 2026. Until further developments unfold, Prof. Prasad’s bail remains extended, and the case is adjourned until January 26.
This situation marks a significant chapter in the political landscape as the case progresses, with implications for accountability within the political sphere.
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