Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has stated that the presidency in Fiji should be held by an individual of unquestionable integrity, someone who is widely acceptable to all communities, and acts as a symbol of unity. Chaudhry argues that Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s nominee, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, does not meet these standards due to his controversial political history.
Chaudhry criticized Lalabalavu as an ethno-nationalist who was closely associated with the George Speight group during the tumultuous events of 2000, which included treasonable activities. He noted that Lalabalavu was convicted for taking part in an “unlawful assembly” at the Sukanaivalu Barracks during the coup and received an eight-month prison sentence on April 4, 2005. During sentencing, Labasa Magistrate Sunil Kumar remarked that Lalabalavu had influenced rebel soldiers to act criminally, when, as a high chief, he should have provided proper leadership.
Later, Lalabalavu joined the Conservative Alliance Matanitu Vanua party, known for its ultra-nationalist views. Additionally, his conduct as a parliamentarian led to a two-year suspension in May 2015 for making derogatory comments about then-Speaker Jiko Luveni. Recently, he faced backlash for making what were deemed ‘racist’ remarks against Opposition Member Aliki Bia while criticizing the Melanesian community.
Chaudhry emphasized that someone with such a problematic history cannot be considered a viable candidate for the presidency. He also pointed out that Prime Minister Rabuka has faced significant criticism for what appears to be bias in appointing individuals from his own province, Cakaudrove, to high-ranking positions.
The former Prime Minister questioned Rabuka’s inconsistency regarding nominees for the presidency, noting that the Prime Minister had initially suggested Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci as the nominee but is now backing Ratu Naiqama. Chaudhry remarked on the ambiguity surrounding whether Ratu Naiqama is the nominee of the Coalition or the People’s Alliance Party, as SODELPA and NFP have yet to express their stance.
Chaudhry expressed concern that for someone who frequently speaks about national unity, it is contradictory for the Prime Minister to engage in parochial politics rather than working towards unifying the nation. He concluded that this approach is not beneficial for Fiji.
The appointment of Fiji’s next President is scheduled to take place during a Special Parliament Sitting on October 31.
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