In a fresh political upheaval for Fiji’s coalition government, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Biman Prasad is expected to resign from Cabinet today after being charged with corruption-related offences, according to multiple local media outlets.
The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) confirmed that Prasad has been charged but has yet to release details of the allegations. However, the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC) reported that the charges stem from Prasad’s alleged failure to declare his directorship in hotel ventures, as required under the Political Parties Act.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has acknowledged the development, telling FBC that Prasad had verbally informed him of his intention to step down. “He has told me of his decision,” Rabuka was quoted as saying.
According to Fijivillage, Prasad is scheduled to appear before the Suva Magistrates Court on November 17, while sources say he will not attend today’s Cabinet meeting.
Prasad, who also leads the National Federation Party (NFP), is one of three deputy prime ministers in Rabuka’s multi-party coalition government. His impending resignation follows closely on the heels of that of Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who resigned last week after being charged with perjury and providing false information to a public servant.
Kamikamica, deputy leader of the People’s Alliance Party, was released on bail under a FJ$10,000 bond, and his case has added to mounting political tensions within the coalition.
The twin resignations come as the Rabuka administration grapples with mounting scrutiny over transparency and governance, issues that have long plagued Fijian politics. Analysts warn that the developments could strain relations between the coalition partners and cast uncertainty over the government’s ability to maintain unity.
While neither Rabuka nor Prasad has made a public statement beyond the confirmation of the resignation, observers say today’s developments mark a significant test of accountability for Fiji’s leadership — and a moment of reckoning for a government that came to power promising reform and integrity.
By FCCT Editorial Team
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