Fiji PM Confirms Resignation of Finance Minister Amid Charges

Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka confirmed on March 5, 2024, that Biman Prasad, the country’s Finance Minister and one of his three deputies, has resigned following corruption-related charges. This announcement marks a significant development in Fiji’s political landscape, as Prasad was charged by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) under the nation’s political party laws.

Local media reported that Prasad allegedly failed to declare his directorship in hotel ventures, a requirement under the Political Parties Act. This resignation follows closely on the heels of another significant political shift, with co-Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica resigning just days earlier amid his own corruption charges.

In a video statement released by the Fijian government, Rabuka stated, “Today, I received Biman Prasad’s formal notification of his resignation from Cabinet and as Deputy Prime Minister. He will remain a member of parliament and caucus.” He acknowledged the gravity of the situation, noting that both Prasad and Kamikamica’s cases would likely take time to resolve. Rabuka mentioned, “It may take some portfolio management and reshuffling.”

Prasad, who has held his cabinet position since December 24, 2022, is the leader of the National Federation Party. He oversaw key portfolios, including finance, strategic planning, national development, and statistics. In a statement later on Tuesday, Prasad expressed his intention to address the charges swiftly and through the proper legal channels, saying, “My lawyers are dealing with this expeditiously.” He also noted that Rabuka had assured him of personal support during this period.

The political environment in Fiji is increasingly unstable. The Fiji Labour Party has criticized Rabuka’s leadership, describing the ongoing situation as indicative of a “total breakdown of leadership.” In a statement, the party expressed deep concern over what it termed “political and institutional chaos” enveloping the Coalition Government. They accused the Prime Minister of downplaying the situation, stating, “the coalition is collapsing under the weight of its own hypocrisy, infighting, and betrayal.”

As the political landscape evolves, Rabuka has already started appointing members from his People’s Alliance Party to fill the ministerial portfolios previously held by Prasad and Kamikamica. Kamikamica faces charges of perjury and providing false information to a public servant. The details of the charges against Prasad remain undisclosed by FICAC at this time.

The recent resignations and the surrounding allegations have raised significant questions about governance and accountability in Fiji. As the situation develops, the public is left to ponder the implications for the current government and the effectiveness of its leadership moving forward.