The Suva High Court is set to hear a leave application from former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad on March 19. Represented by counsel Ashish Nand, Prasad’s legal team plans to submit a supplementary affidavit similar to that in the case of Manoa Kamikamica, which was discussed earlier this morning. This new filing will include details from a letter issued by the Judicial Services Commission, pending leave granted by Justice Siainiu Bull.
FICAC State Counsel Joseph Work requested seven days to prepare a response to these developments. The case has been adjourned for mention until the fifth of next month.
Professor Prasad is contesting charges brought against him by the Fiji Independent Commission against Corruption (FICAC). He faces allegations of failing to comply with statutory disclosure requirements. Specifically, it is asserted that on December 30, 2015, in Suva, he did not declare his directorship in Platinum Hotels & Resorts Pte Limited in his annual declaration of assets. This omission is cited under the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013, particularly Section 24(1)(b)(iv).
Additionally, Prasad is charged with providing false information in a statutory declaration for allegedly submitting a declaration that omitted this directorship, making it materially false. The unfolding legal proceedings highlight the ongoing scrutiny of political figures regarding transparency and accountability in governance. The upcoming hearing will be crucial for both Prasad and the integrity of the political system in Fiji.