Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry emphasized that the position of President should be held by an individual of unquestionable integrity, someone who is widely accepted across all communities and serves as a symbol of unity.
Chaudhry, who leads the Fiji Labour Party, criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s nominee, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, arguing that he fails to meet these essential criteria due to a questionable political history. He labeled Lalabalavu an “ethno-nationalist,” alleging close ties with the George Speight group and involvement in treasonous activities during the 2000 coup.
Chaudhry pointed out that Lalabalavu was convicted for taking part in an “unlawful assembly” at the Sukanaivalu Barracks during the coup, resulting in an eight-month prison sentence handed down by Labasa Magistrate Sunil Kumar. The magistrate remarked that as a high chief, Lalabalavu should have guided the rebel soldiers toward lawful conduct, instead of influencing them towards criminal actions.
He also noted that Lalabalavu joined the Conservative Alliance Matanitu Vanua party, which is known for its ultranationalist position. Furthermore, as a member of Parliament, his membership was suspended for two years in May 2015 after he was found guilty of making disparaging remarks about the then Speaker, Jiko Luveni.
Chaudhry criticized Lalabalavu for recent controversial comments that were condemned as ‘racist’ against Opposition Member Aliki Bia and the Melanesian community. He stated that a person with such a record is not fit to be President.
Additionally, Chaudhry highlighted that Prime Minister Rabuka has faced severe criticism for perceived favoritism in appointing individuals from his own province of Cakaudrove to key positions. He expressed concerns about the confusion surrounding the nominees for the presidency, noting that Rabuka initially proposed Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci and has now shifted to nominating Ratu Naiqama.
Chaudhry remarked that it remains unclear whether Ratu Naiqama is the Coalition’s or the People’s Alliance Party’s nominee, as SODELPA and NFP have yet to clarify their stance on this nomination. He further criticized the Prime Minister for endorsing parochial politics while professing to seek national unity, calling it counterproductive to Fiji’s progress.
The next President of Fiji will be appointed during a Special Parliament Sitting scheduled for October 31.
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