Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry asserts that the Office of the President should be occupied by someone of unquestionable integrity, who is widely accepted across all communities and symbolizes unity. He critiques Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s candidate, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, claiming he does not meet these essential criteria due to his questionable political history.
Chaudhry labels Lalabalavu as an “ethno-nationalist” who has previously allied himself with the George Speight group and was involved in treasonous activities during the 2000 coup. Lalabalavu faced legal consequences for participating in an “unlawful assembly” at Sukanaivalu Barracks, resulting in an eight-month prison sentence handed down by Labasa Magistrate Sunil Kumar, who stated that he influenced rebel soldiers to act criminally instead of providing proper leadership as a high chief.
After his conviction, Lalabalavu joined the Conservative Alliance Matanitu Vanua party, known for its extreme nationalist views. In May 2015, he faced a two-year suspension from Parliament for making derogatory remarks about former Speaker Jiko Luveni. Recently, he was criticized for making ‘racist’ comments directed at Opposition Member Aliki Bia, impacting the Melanesian community.
Chaudhry firmly believes that a person with such a problematic record should not be considered for the presidency. He further criticized Prime Minister Rabuka for perceived bias in appointing individuals from his own province, Cakaudrove, to significant positions.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the nomination process. Initially, Rabuka suggested Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci as the nominee for the People’s Alliance Party (PAP) before pivoting to Ratu Naiqama. The roles of the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) and National Federation Party (NFP) regarding Lalabalavu’s nomination remain unclear.
Chaudhry concludes by questioning Rabuka’s commitment to national unity, suggesting that embracing local politics instead of striving for national cohesion is not a positive approach for Fiji’s future. The next President of Fiji will be appointed during a Special Parliament Sitting scheduled for October 31.
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