Speaker Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu announced yesterday that there will be two distinct opposition groups in Parliament, formed by the 25 Independent Members of Parliament who were previously part of the FijiFirst Opposition.
During the parliamentary session, Ratu Naiqama revealed that one group, composed of 16 members, will be led by Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu, while the second group, consisting of nine members, will be led by Ioane Naivalurua. One member is currently waiting for the outcome of an appeal regarding the deregistration of the FijiFirst party.
Ratu Naiqama noted, “My office has received communication from the 25 members of the Opposition that they are now Independents.” He added that some members have communicated their status during debates, declaring their independence.
He mentioned that one member is still in the process of deciding his status as he awaits the Electoral Commission’s decision regarding his appeal. Ratu Naiqama confirmed that, according to Standing Orders, there are now two working groups within the Opposition.
The group led by Inia Seruiratu includes Jone Usamate as their whip and Ketan Lal as the deputy whip. The group led by Ioane Naivalurua has Viliame Naupoto as their whip and Alipate Tuicolo as the deputy whip.
Ratu Naiqama emphasized that all 26 members remain part of the Opposition, functioning within the two newly established groups. In light of this development, the Office of the Speaker will review the membership of the six standing committees and four select committees to ensure equitable representation for both groups, in accordance with relevant Standing Orders.
Further details on this matter will be announced later in the week.