Mosese Bulitavu, a member of the opposition, has expressed his support for Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s decision to nominate Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu as President. Bulitavu stated that Rabuka’s choice aligns with the traditional order regarding which confederacy holds the presidential role.
“In the Confederacy, Burebasaga’s Ratu Josefa Iloilovatu served as Head of State for an extended period from 2000 to 2009, passing away in 2011 after completing a nine-year term,” Bulitavu noted in a social media statement. He explained that the position then transitioned to the Kubuna confederacy, where Ratu Epeli Nailatikau held the presidency for six years, from 2009 to 2015. Rotuma, also part of the Kubuna Confederacy, continued for another six years, totaling twelve years for Kubuna.
Bulitavu further outlined the recent succession, highlighting that the transfer of the presidential role from Tui Macuata Ratu Wiliame Katonivere to Tui Cakau is a gesture of respect towards his elder chief and Tovata confederacy head. He emphasized that the Tui Macuata has only held the presidency for three years and has formally asked to withdraw his nomination for a second term. As a result, the Prime Minister nominated the Tui Cakau for the second term, honoring the chiefly title as the Tui Cakau is an elder relative of the outgoing President.
He added that the Tui Cakau is the high chief of the Tovata Confederacy, which encompasses the provinces of Cakaudrove, Bua, Macuata, and Lau. Bulitavu emphasized the mutual respect and strong relationship between the two chiefs, stating that the elder relative’s nomination reflects profound respect and humility, which are deeply rooted in indigenous culture and tradition.
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