Speaker Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has announced that there will be two separate opposition groups in Parliament. This follows the transition of 25 Independent Members of Parliament, previously affiliated with FijiFirst, who have now declared their independence.
During a session in Parliament, Ratu Naiqama clarified that one group, consisting of 16 members, will be led by Leader of Opposition Inia Seruiratu, while the other group, made up of nine members, will be headed by Ioane Naivalurua. Notably, one member is currently pending the outcome of an appeal regarding the deregistration of the FijiFirst party.
Ratu Naiqama revealed that his office has received communications from the 25 members indicating their status as Independents. “Some have formally notified me and others announced it during debates that they now stand as Independents,” he explained. One member, who is awaiting the appeal results with the Electoral Commission, still needs to inform Ratu Naiqama of his final decision.
He confirmed that, in accordance with Standing Orders, there are indeed two working groups within the Opposition. The group led by Inia Seruiratu includes Jone Usamate as their whip and Ketan Lal as the deputy whip. The nine-member group led by Ioane Naivalurua has Viliame Naupoto as their whip and Alipate Tuicolo as the deputy whip.
Ratu Naiqama emphasized that all 26 members continue to operate as the Opposition, each within their respective working groups. He also mentioned that, given the new structure, the Office of the Speaker will conduct a review of the membership for the six standing committees and four select committees to ensure both groups are fairly represented.
Further updates on this matter are expected to be announced later this week.