Fiji’s Parliament is preparing to elect a new Speaker tomorrow at 8 am, as announced in a recent advisory. The proceedings are set to be exclusive, with access by invitation only, and will be broadcast live on Walesi and the Parliament’s Facebook Page.
Last month, Deputy Speaker Lenora Qereqeretabua clarified that President-Elect Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu will not officially take on the Constitutional role until he has sworn the Oath for President. She also mentioned that the Office of the Speaker will become vacant on November 12, 2024, and the position will be filled in accordance with Standing Order 17.
In related news, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has put forward Retired Judge Justice Filimoni Jitoko as his nominee for the Speaker position, while the Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu, is expected to announce his own nomination soon.
According to Section 77(1)(a) of the governing regulations, the Speaker must be elected by a simple majority and cannot be a sitting member of Parliament, although they must qualify to be a candidate.
This timely electoral process reflects Fiji’s commitment to upholding its democratic principles and ensuring a smooth transition within its parliamentary system. It is a hopeful indicator of a proactive approach to governance as the nation looks towards strengthening its institutions.
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