Speaker Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu announced that there will be two distinct Opposition groups in Parliament. This development stems from the 25 Independent Members of Parliament, who previously served as Opposition MPs for FijiFirst.
During yesterday’s parliamentary session, Ratu Naiqama revealed that one group, comprising 16 members, will be led by the Leader of Opposition, Inia Seruiratu. The other group, made up of nine members, will be led by Ioane Naivalurua. One member is currently pending the outcome of an appeal regarding the deregistration of the FijiFirst party.
Ratu Naiqama stated, “My office has received notification from the 25 members of the Opposition that they are now Independents.” He noted that some members communicated this decision in writing while others declared their status during debates. The Speaker mentioned that one member is still awaiting the decision from the Electoral Commission regarding their appeal.
He confirmed, in accordance with Standing Orders, that there are indeed two working groups within the Opposition. The group under Inia Seruiratu has Jone Usamate acting as their whip and Ketan Lal as the deputy whip. The other group led by Ioane Naivalurua has Viliame Naupoto as their whip and Alipate Tuicolo as the deputy whip.
Ratu Naiqama affirmed that all 26 members of the two groups will continue to operate as part of the Opposition. He also indicated that the Office of the Speaker will review the membership of the six standing committees and four select committees to ensure balanced representation of both groups, as per Standing Orders.
Further announcements regarding this matter are expected later in the week.