Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has disclosed that the Coalition Government is making persistent efforts to engage with members of the Group of 16 (G16). During a recent media briefing, he revealed that some G16 MPs are considering forming a new political party as they prepare for the 2026 general elections, even as they express their commitment to remaining a loyal opposition.

Seruiratu noted that while there have been approaches from the government to court their support, he personally has not been approached. Fellow G16 MP Jone Usamate shared a similar sentiment, reinforcing the importance of a strong opposition in Fiji’s political landscape.

The G16 is composed of independent members, allowing each member the autonomy to make their own political decisions. Seruiratu explained that their announcement regarding the potential new party is designed to provide clarity and assurance to their supporters, emphasizing the need to avoid leaving them in uncertainty.

He reaffirmed the group’s commitment to upholding values of humility, inclusivity, and accountability, stating that they aim to learn from past experiences during their time with the dissolved FijiFirst party. This new political direction signifies a strategic move to cultivate better governance and to address pressing issues faced by citizens.

The political landscape in Fiji is currently undergoing significant transformations, especially following the deregistration of the FijiFirst party. As the G16 charts its future, there’s optimism that their efforts could lead to a more participatory democratic process, enabling citizens to engage critically with their political representatives and advocate for their needs.

In summary, the formation of a new political party by the G16 marks a pivotal moment in Fiji’s political dynamics, potentially revitalizing political engagement and enhancing governance. This development highlights a hopeful trajectory towards a more accountable political environment as the country approaches the upcoming elections, fostering a climate where diverse political perspectives can flourish.