Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry emphasized that the President’s position in Fiji should be filled by an individual of unquestionable integrity, who is universally accepted by all communities and serves as a symbol of unity. Chaudhry, the leader of the Fiji Labour Party, argues that Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s proposed nominee, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, does not meet these essential criteria and has a questionable political past.
Chaudhry described Lalabalavu as a known ethno-nationalist with a history of collaborating with the George Speight group and participating in treasonous actions in 2000. He highlighted that Lalabalavu was convicted for taking part in an “unlawful assembly” at the Sukanaivalu Barracks during the 2000 coup and received an eight-month prison sentence on April 4, 2005. Labasa Magistrate Sunil Kumar noted that Lalabalavu had influenced rebel soldiers in their unlawful actions instead of providing proper guidance as a high chief.
Lalabalavu subsequently joined the Conservative Alliance Matanitu Vanua party, known for its extreme nationalist views. Additionally, he faced a two-year suspension from Parliament in May 2015 due to making derogatory comments about then-Speaker Jiko Luveni. More recently, he attracted criticism for allegedly making ‘racist’ statements against Opposition Member Aliki Bia and the Melanesian community.
Chaudhry firmly stated that an individual with such a history should not be considered for the presidency. He also criticized Prime Minister Rabuka for what appears to be favoritism in appointing individuals from his own province of Cakaudrove to high-ranking positions. He expressed concerns over Rabuka’s handling of the presidential nominations, noting the inconsistency of nominating different candidates, including Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci before shifting to Ratu Naiqama.
Chaudhry questioned whether Ratu Naiqama is the nominee of the coalition or just the People’s Alliance Party (PAP), as neither SODELPA nor NFP has clarified their stance on the nomination. He remarked that for someone who frequently speaks about national unity, Rabuka’s actions contradict his rhetoric and appear to favor divisive politics. Chaudhry concluded by stating that this approach is not beneficial for Fiji’s progress.
The appointment of Fiji’s next President is set to take place during a Special Parliament Sitting on October 31.