Former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, was granted a non-cash bail bond of $10,000 by the Suva Magistrates Court this morning. Represented by lawyer Richard Naidu, Prasad faces charges from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) related to failure to comply with statutory disclosure requirements.
The charges stem from an incident on December 30, 2015, when Prasad, as an office holder of the registered National Federation Party, allegedly failed to declare his directorship in Platinum Hotels & Resorts Pte Limited in his annual declaration of assets, liabilities, and income. He is also charged with providing false information in a statutory declaration, as he allegedly recklessly omitted to disclose his directorship, rendering the declaration materially false.
During the court proceedings, FICAC representatives highlighted that they have completed full-phase disclosures. Magistrate Yogesh Prasad identified a conflict of interest due to a past property transaction with the defendant, but both counsels agreed to proceed with the case.
Prasad’s legal team plans to file for a permanent stay in the High Court, challenging the charges based on the validity of Rokoika’s appointment and the claim of prejudicial delay, given that these allegations date back to 2015. FICAC did not request strict bail conditions, with the assurance that Prasad is not a flight risk; however, he must inform the court of any travel plans.
The matter is scheduled to return to court on November 8. As these legal challenges unfold, the political landscape in Fiji is under scrutiny, with discussions likely focusing on transparency and accountability within government practices. The situation presents an opportunity to enhance dialogues about ethical conduct in public service and trust in governmental institutions.