Charter flight saga: Bank denies Chaudhry's claim - The Fiji Times

Source: The Fiji Times
Author: Shayal Devi

The Fiji Development Bank (FDB) has denied claims that the Government had intervened to set up a meeting between the bank and Israel flight charter company WABS Pacific.

FDB chief executive officer Saud Minam told The Fiji Times last week that no such instruction had been received from the Government.

"As a matter of policy, the Fiji Development Bank does not disclose any information relating to dealings with its customers. We take this obligation very seriously," Mr Minam said.

"We would, however, like to clarify that we have not received any instructions from the Government as alleged."

In a statement this week, FLP leader Mahendra Chaudhry said the party was reliably informed that "moves are afoot to secure an FDB loan" to pay off about $2.5million owing by WABS Pacific to Fiji Airways arising from the charter.

Mr Chaudhry also claimed the meeting between FDB and WABS Pacific was facilitated by the Tourism Ministry.

"One must ask whether the Finance Ministry is aware of what is happening. Is this being facilitated with their approval," Mr Chaudhry asked.

"The FDB must be extremely cautious not to expose itself if it entertains an application outside its lending rules. The RBF must be vigilant as well."

None of the players in the charter deal are responding to The Fiji Times questions on when the debt to national carrier Fiji Airways will be repaid.

WABS Pacific director Michael Mausio said he had no comment, as all the company needed to share had been shared by both WABS Pacific and Fiji Airways in previous statements.

Fiji Airways had a similar response. "Please note the last statement issued by Fiji Airways is our final comment on the matter.

We will not be issuing any further statements at this stage," a spokesperson for the airline said.

Questions have also been sent to Tourism Minister Viliame Gavoka and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad.