PROFESSOR Biman Prasad is preparing to return to Cabinet, with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka confirming that a swearing-in ceremony will be held today following the National Federation Party leader’s acquittal in a landmark court case.
However, Mr Rabuka did not disclose which portfolio Prof Prasad would return to, leaving details of his Cabinet role unclear.
Prof Prasad welcomed the court ruling yesterday.
“I am glad it’s over,” he said.
Surrounded by cheering supporters and associates, the NFP leader exchanged hugs and congratulations after Magistrate Yogesh Prasad dismissed both charges against him in a no-case-to-answer ruling.
The case, which began in October 2025 after charges were sanctioned by Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) acting commissioner Lavi Rokoika, centred on allegations that Prof Prasad failed to declare his directorship in Platinum Hotels and Resorts PTE Ltd in his December 2015 annual asset declaration. FICAC, while under Ms Rokoika’s predecessor in office Barbara Malimali, had earlier closed its file relating to the allegations against Prof Prasad.
Prof Prasad thanked NFP members, supporters, and well-wishers in Fiji and abroad for standing by him and the party throughout the legal battle.
With the February 2027 general election approaching, Prof Prasad said the party was ready to contest the polls.
“I’ve said that before that NFP has fought all elections in this country and so the party is always ready, the party is always prepared. We may not have done well in some elections, that’s fine, but NFP is ready for the next election.”
In delivering his ruling, Magistrate Prasad held that the definition of an office holder under Section 2 of the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013 did not include a party leader.
The provision specifically identifies a party’s president, vice president, treasurer, secretary, and registered officers.
He ruled that extending the definition beyond its plain meaning would infringe on the accused’s constitutional right to a fair trial.
With FICAC failing to establish an essential element of the charges, Prof Prasad was acquitted on both counts.
FICAC has 28 days to appeal the decision.
