Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that he has engaged in discussions with the leaders of the National Federation Party and the Social Democratic Liberal Party, informing them about his talks with nine Independent MPs.
In an interview with FijiLive, Rabuka stated that he had conversations with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad, as well as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka.
Although Rabuka did not disclose extensive details, he mentioned that both leaders were receptive to the concept. “I consulted them this morning. And as far as I am concerned, the Coalition Partners are as strong as when it was initially formed,” Rabuka said.
The Prime Minister confirmed his meeting with the nine Independent MPs occurred the previous day.
Rabuka noted that no formal agreements were made during the meeting; the objective was for the nine MPs to express their support for him as the Leader of the Government from the Opposition. He highlighted plans to discuss with the Speaker of Parliament about the possibility of providing a separate facility for these MPs if they do not receive support from the Opposition Caucus, to better serve their constituents.
Rabuka also hinted at the potential of amending the 2013 Constitution, given the support from these independent MPs. “That can be a result of their cooperation,” he stated.