Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, has submitted his resignation from Cabinet following a charge from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). This significant move comes after a discussion with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, where Prasad conveyed his decision to step aside amid ongoing legal proceedings.
In his resignation statement, Prasad emphasized his commitment to addressing the allegations through appropriate legal channels. “I intend to deal with this charge in the shortest possible time and in accordance with proper legal process,” he stated, noting that his legal team is already involved. He expressed gratitude for the support he has received from Prime Minister Rabuka during this trying time.
Prasad reflected on the challenges that often accompany political leadership, acknowledging that unexpected hurdles can arise. “This is just one more of those challenges to be dealt with calmly, patiently, and as swiftly as possible,” he remarked. Despite stepping down from his ministerial role, he plans to continue serving as an active Member of Parliament to effectively represent his constituents.
Prime Minister Rabuka accepted Prasad’s resignation and thanked him for his contributions. In an effort to maintain stability within the government, the Prime Minister’s office has appointed Assistant Minister for Finance, Esrom Immanuel, as the Acting Minister for Finance.
Prasad’s resignation comes against a backdrop of intensified scrutiny within Fiji’s political landscape, particularly following the recent resignation of former Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who is also facing separate charges. This sequence of events highlights ongoing discussions surrounding integrity and accountability in politics.
In response to these developments, Prime Minister Rabuka has reiterated the principle of governance that asserts, “No one is above the law,” advocating for transparency and ethical behavior among government officials. As these political dynamics unfold, they present an opportunity for potential reforms aimed at restoring public trust and enhancing the integrity of Fiji’s political framework. This collective call for accountability is a promising sign towards a more transparent governance model that aligns public officials with the expectations of the citizens they serve.