Convicted former Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama may return to the political arena as he looks to contest the general election next year, according to Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, a close ally. Bainimarama, who initially took power through a military coup in 2006, is seeking to have his corruption conviction overturned by the Court of Appeal.
Sayed-Khaiyum stated that there is significant public support for Bainimarama’s return, suggesting that many Fijians feel the country is in need of his leadership. He criticized the current coalition government led by Sitiveni Rabuka for failing to effectively govern, indicating that Rabuka’s administration is unlikely to win the 2026 elections due to the ongoing economic crisis.
In recent years, Fiji has seen a rise in social and economic disparities, with many citizens experiencing poverty and others migrating abroad. Sayed-Khaiyum emphasized that the government should focus on these pressing issues rather than attempting to change the Constitution, which he labeled as a distraction from the real challenges facing the country.
Bainimarama’s history includes a return to democracy with a general election in 2014, which saw his FijiFirst party achieve a landslide victory. However, his administration has faced accusations of authoritarianism, human rights abuses, and media suppression, though he won a second term in the 2018 elections, securing a little over 50% of votes.
In 2023, Bainimarama resigned from parliament following a three-year suspension for sedition and was jailed for perverting the course of justice concerning a blocked investigation into the University of the South Pacific. He was released early from prison due to an evaluation under the Corrections Act that allowed for early release based on certain criteria.
As the political landscape evolves, with seven parties registered to contest the upcoming elections and several more in the process of registration, Sayed-Khaiyum indicated that public interest in new political options reflects dissatisfaction with the current government.
Bainimarama’s potential return could signify a shift in Fiji’s political dynamics as citizens express their concerns about the present administration’s handling of vital issues. This situation remains developing, and further updates will be made as the Court of Appeal processes Bainimarama’s appeal and the political climate unfolds closer to the next election.
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