Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has stated that the constitutional provisions which permitted Mahendra Chaudhry to run for elections under Section 56(2)(g) are analogous to those allowing Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu to be nominated for the presidency under Section 83(1)(e).
Rabuka revealed that the Parliamentary Caucus of the People’s Alliance Party has decided to nominate Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, the current Speaker and Tui Cakau, for the position of Head of State, emphasizing that he fulfills the criteria set forth in the 2013 Constitution.
He highlighted Ratu Naiqama’s credentials as a paramount Chief and former Senior Cabinet Minister, where he oversaw various ministerial roles including i-Taukei Affairs, Lands, Mineral Resources, and Transport and Civil Aviation. Rabuka noted that Ratu Naiqama has earned a Master’s Degree in International Development from Clark University in Massachusetts and a postgraduate diploma in Integrated Rural/Regional Development Planning from the Development Study Centre in Israel. He is also qualified as a Land Valuer.
Rabuka underscored Ratu Naiqama’s extensive parliamentary experience, having participated in five general elections. He praised Ratu Naiqama’s 26-year career as a Land Valuer, emphasizing his commitment to Native Affairs and Land Administration.
Describing Ratu Naiqama as fair and cherished by people of diverse ethnic backgrounds, Rabuka articulated that many individuals in Cakaudrove have leased land from him for generations, integrating into the community.
Rabuka further expressed confidence in Ratu Naiqama’s ability to lead the nation as Head of State, citing his role as Speaker of Parliament, where he has been respected for his impartiality and expertise.
He mentioned, “Ratu Naiqama’s tenure as President will usher in a time of national stability, social unity, and prosperity.” Rabuka also questioned the motives behind a recent statement from Mahendra Chaudhry, pointing out that concerns about Ratu Naiqama’s qualifications were not raised when he was appointed as Speaker in 2022.
To clarify the constitutional stipulations, Section 56(2)(g) of the 2013 Constitution allows individuals to stand for Parliament only if they have not been convicted of certain offenses within the past eight years. Section 83(1)(e) outlines similar criteria for presidential nominees, requiring that candidates not have any convictions within the preceding six years.
Section 84(2) details the nomination process for the presidency, requiring both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition to propose one candidate each to the Speaker, who will then present both for parliamentary voting. The candidate receiving majority support will be named as President, with the Speaker announcing the results.
A Special Parliament Sitting is set for October 31 to carry out the nomination and appointment of Fiji’s next Head of State.
Leave a comment