National Federation Party leader, Biman Prasad, says he is ‘pleased’ with the decision by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Christopher Pryde.

Mr Pryde directed Police to drop charges against Mr Prasad.

Mr Pryde found insufficient evidence to charge Mr Prasad of indecently annoying a woman on two separate occasions.

“The Police docket was reviewed by the ODPP in the usual manner, but our conclusion was that there was insufficient evidence for a reasonable prospect of conviction had the matter to proceed to court,” Mr Pryde said.

But Commissioner of Police Brigadier-General Sitiveni Qiliho said: “I respect the decision of the DPP but it is very disappointing.”

He said he would issue a formal statement later.

Last month, Police charged Mr Prasad for allegedly hugging and kissing Ari Taniguchi on the cheek allegedly insulting her modesty.

Ms Taniguchi is the wife of former NFP provincial candidate, Hiroshi Taniguchi.

Mr Prasad was interviewed by Police on October 26 where the charges were laid and he was granted bail.

He was scheduled to appear in court next week.

“As part of our review, we analysed the charges proposed by the Police as well as other possible charges and available defences,” Mr Pryde said.

“We also noted the representations provided to us by Professor Prasad’s lawyers. As the matter does not meet the evidentiary threshold, Police have been directed not to file any charges.”

In what was a first official interview to Fiji Sun, Mr Prasad said: “I am pleased that this issue is resolved.”

“As I said on October 26 outside CID Headquarters after I was charged and released on bail, I am firmly focused on NFP working with The People’s Alliance to win December’s elections and form the new government.

“That is the work our team has to do, and nothing will distract me from it.”

Questions were sent to Mr Taniguchi, but no response was received when this edition went to press.

Story by: josefa.babitu@fijisun.com.fj