NFP reaffirms support for Professor Prasad

The National Federation Party has reaffirmed its full and unwavering support for its leader, Professor Biman Chand Prasad following his decision to step aside as Deputy Prime Minister and from all his ministerial portfolios.

Party President Parmod Chand expressed deep appreciation for the overwhelming support from NFP members and branches across the country, as well as from well-wishers both in Fiji and abroad.

Chand said this demonstrates yet again why the NFP remains a strong, principled fortress with an indestructible foundation laid 62 years ago in 1963.

He also thanked Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for his understanding and public support during this period, saying the NFP remains committed to the stability and success of the Coalition Government, in line with the principles and spirit of the coalition agreement.

The President acknowledged that this is indeed a testing time for both the party and their leader.

Chand said, “Yet we remain guided by our unshakable belief that truth, integrity and justice will prevail.”

He described Professor Prasad as a leader who has always conducted himself with honour, humility, and dedication to the people of Fiji.

Chand further said that Professor Prasad’s three decades of service as an accomplished academic and the last eleven years as NFP leader have been marked by honesty, integrity, transparency, accountability, and good governance.

He added that the NFP remains firm and united, confident it will overcome this challenge as it has done many times in its long history.

Meanwhile, the party’s Management Board will meet around mid-November to chart the way forward and reinforce their collective resolve to serve the people of Fiji with renewed energy and unity of purpose.

Professor Prasad has been charged with failure to comply with statutory disclosure requirements, contrary to section 24(5) of the Political Parties Act.

It is alleged that in December 2015, Professor Prasad failed to comply with the Act by not declaring his directorship in Platinum Hotels and Resorts PTE Limited.

He will appear in the Suva Magistrates Court on 17 November.