Opposition member Mosese Bulitavu has supported Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s decision to propose Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, the Speaker of the House, for the presidency. Bulitavu stated that Rabuka’s choice is consistent with the traditional rotational order of confederacies taking on the presidential role.
He pointed out that Ratu Josefa Iloilovatu of the Burebasaga confederacy served as Head of State for an extended period from 2000 to 2009 before his death in 2011, completing a nine-year term. Following that, the presidency shifted to the Kubuna confederacy, where Ratu Epeli Nailatikau held office for six years from 2009 to 2015.
Bulitavu also noted that Rotuma, a part of the Kubuna Confederacy, held the presidency for an additional six years, bringing Kubuna’s total to 12 years in that role. He explained the transition of the presidency from Ratu Wiliame Katonivere of the Tui Macuata to the Tui Cakau as an act of respect toward the chief of the Tovata confederacy.
The Tui Macuata, who has been President of Fiji for three years, has officially requested to withdraw his name from the nomination for a new term. In light of this, the Prime Minister nominated the Tui Cakau for the second term on behalf of the Tovata Confederacy, highlighting the significance of their chief titles and the familial ties between the candidates.
Bulitavu emphasized that both men share a deep mutual respect, which reflects the principles of respect and humility inherent in their indigenous culture and traditions.
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