At least half of the 17 FijiFirst party Members of Parliament will continue as independent MPs following the party’s recent deregistration, according to Opposition MP Mosese Bulitavu.
Bulitavu confirmed his decision to remain an independent MP and expressed strong interest in supporting priority areas of Government.
“I can confirm that about eight to ten of us will remain independent to move the country forward in areas such as working towards passing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and reviewing the 2013 Constitution,” said Bulitavu.
He clarified that he would not join any political party, including the Prime Minister’s party, citing unclear rules and constitution.
“The drafters of the 2013 Constitution did not foresee a scenario involving independent MPs and how they would cooperate with the Government,” he explained.
Bulitavu said the Speaker had asked MPs last month to inform him individually of their status—whether they would join a party or remain independent—and that they would submit their response on Wednesday.
He mentioned having shared his viewpoint with other MPs, seeing this as an opportunity for national unity under the Government.
“We need to establish the Truth and Reconciliation Commission so our leader, Voreqe Bainimarama, who is serving his prison sentence, can seek forgiveness and spend time with his family,” Bulitavu emphasized.
He also stressed the need to address loopholes in the 2013 Constitution.
Bulitavu revealed that the party had ample time to respond to the Supervisor of Elections but lacked the authority to amend the Constitution as all founders had resigned.
“The office bearers, who were the founding members, were active when we received the letter from the Supervisor of Elections, but they chose to resign,” he said.
“We sought legal advice on how we could salvage the party, but we did not have the authority to do so.”
Some businessmen offered assistance to clear the party’s debt, but this was declined.
“When businessmen get involved in the party, they want to influence the board and make decisions for their own benefit, which was the culture in the past where they determined the direction,” he stated.
“We do not want this to happen at the expense of our voters’ interests in advancing the country.”
Bulitavu added that further legal opinions would be sought today and asked FijiFirst voters for their continued support.