Fiji’s political landscape is facing instability, with the potential for the return of “unpopular” politicians, according to political expert Professor Steven Ratuva. He draws parallels to global trends where leaders regain support despite past controversies, noting the example of Donald Trump’s political comeback. Ratuva, who is the director of the University of Canterbury’s Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies, warns that Fiji’s current coalition government—being the first under the 2013 Constitution—is essentially in an experimental state, paving the way for unpredictable voter behavior in the upcoming 2026 elections, which he describes as a “cleansing election.”

Ratuva notes that while the current political atmosphere is tumultuous, parties like Unity Fiji and Labour could leverage this uncertainty to secure better positions. He emphasizes that despite existing scandals, historical patterns may prevail, allowing certain figures to reclaim their influence. Citing the fluidity of Fiji’s political dynamics, he argues that voter decisions could be swayed in unexpected ways.

In light of recent discussions surrounding the reshuffling of ministers within the government, Ratuva suggests that this change might be an effort to respond to mounting public scrutiny post-scandals. This reshuffle aims to reinvigorate a coalition government often perceived as operating in “firefighting mode” amidst ongoing allegations of misconduct. Increased civic engagement reflects a significant shift, as citizens now feel more empowered to express their opinions, which serves as a promising sign for fostering a political environment that emphasizes accountability and transparency.

The overarching sentiment is one of cautious optimism: there remains hope that through meaningful engagement and constructive dialogue, Fiji can navigate its current political challenges and work towards a more effective governance model that addresses pressing societal issues, such as education and healthcare. This transformative period in Fiji’s political discourse stands as an opportunity for a more accountable government that genuinely reflects the interests and needs of its citizens.