Tensions within the People’s Alliance Party were highlighted during a general assembly held in Lautoka yesterday, as members raised concerns regarding the party’s position on the nomination for the next President of Fiji.
Supporters at Hotel 2000 inquired whether a nominee had been proposed, especially considering the current President’s term is nearing its end. Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, who was appointed by the FijiFirst government on October 22, 2021, officially took office a month later.
The 2013 Constitution mandates that Fiji’s President is appointed by Parliament for a three-year term, leading to speculation about potential successors. Prime Minister and party leader Sitiveni Rabuka stated that no official motion to nominate a candidate was presented during the assembly.
Rabuka explained that after the 2022 elections, various factions attempted to exert influence over both the President and the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF). He emphasized that both individuals resisted these pressures and remained steadfast in their positions.
“We discussed who should take up the presidency and who would be the party’s nominee,” Rabuka remarked. He also noted that the current President had been made aware of these discussions, particularly since internal disagreements and social media activity could heighten tensions.
Rabuka cautioned that suggesting a different nominee would be inappropriate, pointing out that no Fijian President has ever served only one term. “In deference to the previous government that appointed Tui Macuata, we should give him another term,” he asserted, highlighting the President’s effective performance and adherence to the Constitution.
The meeting saw only a small number of PA ministers in attendance, including Rabuka, Manoa Kamikamica, Vatimi Rayalu, Sakiasi Tubuna, Esrom Immanuel, and Jese Saukuru.