Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has highlighted that the constitutional provisions allowing Mahendra Chaudhry to run for elections under Section 56(2)(g) parallel those permitting Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu’s nomination for the presidency under Section 83(1)(e).
During a recent announcement, Rabuka stated that the Parliamentary Caucus of the People’s Alliance Party has decided to nominate Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, who serves as the Honourable Speaker and Tui Cakau, for the position of Head of State.
Rabuka emphasized that Ratu Naiqama is a paramount chief and a former senior cabinet minister who has overseen portfolios including i-Taukei Affairs, Lands, Mineral Resources, and Transport and Civil Aviation. Additionally, he has previously chaired the TLTB and the i-Taukei Affairs Board.
He further noted that Ratu Naiqama has a Masters Degree in International Development from Clark University in Massachusetts, a postgraduate diploma in Integrated Rural/Regional Development from a development study center in Israel, as well as qualifications as a land valuer.
With extensive parliamentary experience, Ratu Naiqama has successfully participated in five general elections, and during his 26-year career as a Land Valuer for the TLTB, he focused on Native Affairs and Land Administration, gaining significant practical insights in land management and valuation.
Rabuka described him as a fair paramount chief, well regarded by people of various ethnicities, many of whom have leased land for generations. He also mentioned that Ratu Naiqama’s experience as the former Leader of the Opposition and current Speaker of Parliament makes him exceptionally qualified to guide the nation as Head of State.
As Speaker, Rabuka asserted, Ratu Naiqama has been impartial in his decisions while ensuring that parliamentary debates are meaningful and centered on national interests.
Rabuka expressed confidence that Ratu Naiqama’s presidency will usher in a period characterized by national stability, social cohesion, unity, and growth. He also raised concerns regarding the motives behind statements made by Fiji Labour Party Leader, Mahendra Chaudhry.
He noted that when Ratu Naiqama was appointed Speaker in 2022, there were no similar objections raised. The relevant sections of the 2013 Constitution specify the qualifications for candidacy and presidency, including stipulations regarding past convictions.
A Special Parliament Sitting is planned for October 31 to officially nominate and appoint Fiji’s next Head of State.
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