National Federation Party Leader and Member of Parliament, Professor Biman Prasad, appeared at the Suva Magistrate Court today amid allegations that he failed to comply with statutory disclosure requirements. He is accused of submitting false information in a statutory declaration by not declaring his directorship with Platinum Hotels and Resorts Pte Limited in his annual asset, liability, and income declaration to the Registrar of Political Parties.
During the court proceedings, Magistrate Yogesh Prasad was informed by Senior State Counsel Joseph Work about the prosecution’s plan to present proposed facts to the Defence. In response to the charges, Professor Prasad is challenging the allegations by seeking a stay of proceedings in the High Court, where a hearing is scheduled for March.
Professor Prasad is being represented by Defence Lawyer Richard Naidu. The case has been adjourned to April 20, providing both parties ample time to prepare for the next steps in the legal process. This situation raises important questions regarding political accountability and transparency in Fiji, impacting not just Professor Prasad but the broader political environment in the country. As the legal process unfolds, it is essential for public trust that such matters are addressed thoroughly and justly.