Opposition member Mosese Bulitavu has supported Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s decision to nominate Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu as President. Bulitavu claimed that Rabuka’s choice aligns with the tradition regarding which confederacy should assume the presidential role.
He pointed out that Ratu Josefa Iloilovatu from the Burebasaga confederacy served as Head of State from 2000 to 2009 and passed away in 2011, completing a nine-year term. After Iloilovatu, the presidency transitioned to the Kubuna confederacy, where Ratu Epeli Nailatikau held the position for six years, from 2009 to 2015. Bulitavu noted that Rotuma, under the Kubuna Confederacy, contributed to another six years of presidential service, totaling 12 years for Kubuna.
Bulitavu elaborated on the transition of the presidential role from Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, the Tui Macuata, to the Tui Cakau, emphasizing it as a gesture of respect for the Tui Cakau, who is the head of the Tovata confederacy. He mentioned that the Tui Macuata, who has only held the presidency for three years and has formally requested to withdraw from the nomination for another term, made way for the Tui Cakau to take on the second term of the Tovata Confederacy.
He highlighted the strong ties and respect between the two chiefs, pointing to their relationship and the cultural significance of this decision, which honors their chiefly titles and traditions within the indigenous community.
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