The Suva High Court is scheduled to address a leave application from former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, on March 19. Represented by attorney Ashish Nand, Prasad’s legal team is expected to file a supplementary affidavit similar to one presented in the Manoa Kamikamica case discussed earlier today. This new affidavit will incorporate details from a letter from the Judicial Services Commission, pending the leave granted by Justice Siainiu Bull.
FICAC State Counsel Joseph Work requested an additional seven days to prepare a response to these new developments, prompting an adjournment of the case until the fifth of next month.
Professor Prasad is contesting allegations raised by the Fiji Independent Commission against Corruption (FICAC), which asserts he failed to meet statutory disclosure requirements. Specifically, he is accused of not declaring his position as a director in Platinum Hotels & Resorts Pte Limited in his annual asset declaration, a violation of the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013, particularly Section 24(1)(b)(iv). Furthermore, Prasad faces charges for allegedly providing false information in a statutory declaration, with claims that the omission of his directorship made his declaration materially false.
These ongoing legal proceedings underscore the heightened scrutiny faced by politicians regarding transparency and accountability in governance. The upcoming hearing will not only impact Prasad’s political future but also reflect on the integrity of Fiji’s political system, reinforcing the commitment to uphold democratic principles and accountability among public officials.