Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad is anticipated to officially resign from his Cabinet position today, a move that has been confirmed by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. The Prime Minister disclosed that Prasad had verbally conveyed his intentions to leave, adding that he would not be in attendance at today’s Cabinet meeting.
Earlier today, Professor Prasad was charged by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) for allegedly failing to declare his directorship in Platinum Hotels and Resorts PTE Limited, dating back to 2015. This marks Prasad as the third minister from the Coalition Government to resign since its formation. Last week, Manoa Kamikamica, the former Deputy Prime Minister and Trade Minister, stepped down after also being charged by FICAC, while Kalaveti Ravu had previously resigned under similar circumstances.
The implications of these resignations highlight ongoing concerns regarding integrity and accountability within Fiji’s political landscape. The public is increasingly calling for transparency in governance, underscoring the critical need for reforms that enhance trust in political institutions.
Professor Prasad is expected to appear in court on November 17, providing an opportunity for legal proceedings that may further clarify the allegations against him. The resolution of such cases continues to foster discussions about the importance of ethical conduct among officials, potentially paving the way for a more accountable governance framework in Fiji, which could restore public confidence in its leadership.