The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption has provided the Duva Magistrate Court with updates on the ongoing case involving former Finance Minister and current Member of Parliament, Professor Biman Prasad. A stay application hearing has been scheduled for March 19 at the Suva High Court, with a pre-trial conference to follow on April 20. In the meantime, Prasad’s bail has been extended.
Prasad is facing significant allegations related to his failure to meet statutory disclosure requirements, as well as providing false information in a statutory declaration. These allegations stem from an incident on December 30, 2015, when he allegedly did not disclose his directorship in Platinum Hotels & Resorts Pte Limited in his annual declaration of assets, liabilities, and income, as mandated by the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013.
In addition to the undisclosed directorship, Prasad is charged with submitting a materially false declaration, raising important legal and ethical concerns regarding transparency and accountability in public office. This case underlines the vital role of integrity in political positions and serves as a critical reminder of the legislation in place to promote transparency among political figures in Fiji. As the legal matters progress, it becomes increasingly evident how crucial adherence to statutory requirements is for maintaining public confidence in governance.