Opposition member Mosese Bulitavu has expressed support for Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s nomination of Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu for the presidency. Bulitavu stated that the nomination aligns with the established order of confederacies in the presidential role.
In a social media post, he noted that Ratu Josefa Iloilovatu from the Burebasaga confederacy served as Head of State from 2000 to 2009 for a total of nine years before his passing in 2011. Following his tenure, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau from the Kubuna confederacy took over, serving as president for six years from 2009 until 2015.
Bulitavu explained that Rotuma, as part of the Kubuna confederacy, contributed an additional six years, leading to a total of twelve years of presidential service from that confederacy. He emphasized the respectful transition of the presidential role from Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, the Tui Macuata, to the Tui Cakau, highlighting the Tui Macuata’s request to withdraw his name from nomination after serving for three years.
The Prime Minister’s nomination of the Tui Cakau for a second term reflects the acknowledgment of their chiefly titles, as the Tui Cakau is a senior relative of the president. Bulitavu pointed out the significance of the relationship between the two chiefs, noting the strong mutual respect they share, entrenched in indigenous cultural traditions.
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