NFP leader alleges political intimidation by senior public servant

National Federation Party (NFP) leader Professor Biman Prasad has accused a senior public servant in Fiji's Western Division of political intimidation. Prasad alleges the official questioned a subordinate about their intention to run as a candidate for the NFP in the upcoming general election.

Speaking at a party meeting, Prasad claimed the senior official stated the information about the subordinate's candidacy application was obtained through police intelligence. The NFP leader condemned this as intimidation, emphasizing that civil servants are legally permitted to apply for candidacy. They are only required to resign once officially endorsed and announced as a candidate.

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Under our electoral laws, a public officer, be it a civil servant, a police officer, a military officer or a trade unionist, must resign from his or her job once he or she is confirmed and announced as a proposed candidate.

Prasad intends to formally address the issue with Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. He seeks a clear directive to senior public officers against engaging in political interference or suppressing individual rights. Prasad warned that such conduct would not be tolerated.

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Because there is no guarantee that anyone who expresses interest in being a candidate will be endorsed.