Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry emphasizes that the Presidency of Fiji should be held by an individual of impeccable integrity, someone who is broadly accepted across all communities and serves as a unifying figure. Chaudhry, who leads the Fiji Labour Party, argues that the nomination of Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka fails to meet these critical standards due to his questionable political background.
Chaudhry accuses Lalabalavu of being an ethno-nationalist who had close ties with the George Speight group during its treasonous activities in 2000. He highlights that Lalabalavu was convicted for partaking in an “unlawful assembly” at Sukanaivalu Barracks amid the 2000 coup and served an eight-month prison sentence starting on April 4, 2005. The Labasa Magistrate, Sunil Kumar, noted during sentencing that Lalabalavu had influenced rebel soldiers to act unlawfully, failing to provide the leadership expected of a high chief.
Additionally, Chaudhry points out that Lalabalavu was previously affiliated with the Conservative Alliance Matanitu Vanua party, known for its ultra-nationalist views. His tenure as a Parliamentarian also faced controversy; he was suspended for two years in May 2015 for making derogatory remarks about the then Speaker of Parliament, Jiko Luveni. Recently, Lalabalavu attracted widespread criticism for racially charged comments directed at Opposition Member Aliki Bia, which insulted the Melanesian community.
Chaudhry firmly concludes that someone with Lalabalavu’s history is unfit for the role of President. He further criticizes Prime Minister Rabuka for allegedly showing favoritism by appointing individuals from his own province of Cakaudrove to significant positions of power. The shifting nominations from Rabuka—from initially proposing Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci to nominating Lalabalavu—have raised questions about the clarity and unity of the Coalition.
Chaudhry believes that for a leader who frequently speaks about national unity, Rabuka’s apparent focus on regional politics is perplexing and counterproductive for the future of Fiji. The new President of Fiji is set to be appointed during a Special Parliament Sitting on October 31.
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