Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry emphasizes that the position of President should be occupied by an individual of impeccable integrity, someone who is widely accepted by all communities and serves as a unifying symbol.
Chaudhry, leader of the Fiji Labour Party, argues that Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s nominee, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, does not fulfill these requirements due to his controversial political history.
He described Lalabalavu as a recognized ethno-nationalist who was closely linked to the George Speight group and involved in treasonous acts during the 2000 coup. Chaudhry reminded that Lalabalavu was convicted for partaking in an “unlawful assembly” at Sukanaivalu Barracks during that tumultuous period, receiving an eight-month prison sentence on April 4, 2005. The Labasa Magistrate, Sunil Kumar, noted that as a high chief, Lalabalavu should have guided the rebel soldiers rather than incited criminal behavior.
Furthermore, Lalabalavu later became affiliated with the Conservative Alliance Matanitu Vanua party, known for its ultra-nationalist views. His parliamentary membership faced a two-year suspension in May 2015 after he was found guilty of making offensive remarks about then-Speaker Jiko Luveni.
Chaudhry also highlighted recent backlash against Lalabalavu for allegedly making ‘racist’ comments directed at Opposition Member Aliki Bia, in which he targeted the Melanesian community.
He asserted that someone with such a problematic history should not be considered for the presidency.
Chaudhry criticized Prime Minister Rabuka for showing apparent bias in appointing individuals from his home province of Cakaudrove to significant roles.
He noted that Rabuka’s management of the presidential nominees has raised questions, as he initially proposed Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci and has now shifted to nominating Ratu Naiqama. There is also uncertainty regarding whether Lalabalavu is representing the Coalition or the People’s Alliance Party (PAP), as the positions of SODELPA and NFP on his nomination remain unclear.
For someone who frequently speaks about national unity, Chaudhry found it odd that the Prime Minister would favor local politics instead of pursuing greater national cohesion.
“This is certainly not the way forward for Fiji,” Chaudhry concluded.
In related news, the next President of Fiji is set to be appointed during a Special Parliament Sitting on October 31.
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