Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has emphasized the importance of appointing a President with impeccable integrity who is accepted by all communities and seen as a unifying figure. Chaudhry criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s choice of Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu for the position, arguing that he does not meet these essential criteria due to a questionable political history.
Chaudhry described Lalabalavu as a known ethno-nationalist who was involved with the George Speight group during the treasonous activities of 2000. He pointed out that Lalabalavu was convicted for participating in an “unlawful assembly” at the Sukanaivalu Barracks during the coup and received an 8-month prison sentence in April 2005 for his actions, which a magistrate deemed influential in inciting rebel soldiers to commit crimes.
Furthermore, Chaudhry noted that Lalabalavu later joined the Conservative Alliance Matanitu Vanua party, recognized for its extreme nationalist views. He also faced a two-year suspension from Parliament in May 2015 after being found guilty of making defamatory comments about then-Speaker Jiko Luveni. Most recently, Lalabalavu received backlash for making alleged racist remarks toward Opposition Member Aliki Bia, which drew significant criticism.
Chaudhry argued that a candidate with such a background should not be considered for the presidency. He also expressed concerns about Rabuka’s actions, suggesting a pattern of favoritism by appointing individuals from his home province of Cakaudrove to prominent positions.
The former Prime Minister pointed out the confusion surrounding Rabuka’s presidential nominations, first proposing Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci and then nominating Lalabalavu. The lack of clarity regarding the positions of other coalition members, such as SODELPA and NFP, on Lalabalavu’s nomination adds to the uncertainty.
Chaudhry concluded that despite Rabuka’s advocacy for national unity, his political choices reflect a preference for local interests rather than a genuine effort to unify the nation. The next President of Fiji is expected to be appointed during a Special Parliament Sitting on October 31.