The matter where the counsel for leader of the National Federation Party and Member of Parliament, Professor Biman Prasad, has applied for a stay on proceedings in relation to charges laid by FICAC, has been called in the Civil High Court before Justice Dane Tuiqereqere this morning.
Justice Tuiqereqere has transferred the matter to Justice Siainiu Fa'alogo Bull as she is hearing a similar matter in relation to a stay application by MP Manoa Kamikamica.
Professor Prasad's counsel Richard Naidu informed the court that one ground in his and Kamikamica's case is the same which is in relation to the appointment of the FICAC Commissioner, Lavi Rokoika.
Office of the Attorney General representative, Yovin Naidu made an application to remove the Office as a party to the proceedings.
Justice Tuiqereqere suggested to make a proper application before Justice Bull. Meanwhile, Justice Tuiqereqere had said that his understanding was that the matter is criminal in nature, however Richard Naidu has disputed this.
Justice Tuiqereqere says whatever the jurisdiction may be, the matter is now before the court.
Professor Prasad has been charged with two counts of failing to comply with statutory disclosure requirements.
He is also charged with providing false information in a statutory declaration, after he allegedly recklessly submitted a declaration that omitted his directorship, rendering the document materially false.
The matter will be called before Justice Bull next Wednesday.
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