The Coalition Government of Fiji is facing internal divisions regarding its nominees for the presidential appointment. Reports indicate that both the Social Democratic Liberal Party and the National Federation Party are advocating for the reappointment of His Excellency Ratu Wiliame Katonivere for a second term. Other names put forward include Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci and the Vunivalu of Nukunitabua, Ratu Naulu Mataitini.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka spoke to the media, stating he could not reveal their chosen nominee but acknowledged there were concerns about the nominees that the Speaker had brought to his attention earlier in the day. He also confirmed that he had retracted his own nomination due to these uncertainties.
“In fairness to both, we could not make the nomination while there was a cloud over our nominees,” Rabuka explained. Despite the controversy, the nomination and acknowledgment of the presidential appointment were included in Parliament’s agenda that morning.
When asked about their position, Iowane Naivalurua, leader of the bloc of nine, stated that they would align with the Government on matters of mutual interest but noted that the Government had yet to communicate its preferred nominee. He remarked, “This is politics at play. I understand that some names are being floated around, but I am unaware of,” and the Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu, did not provide a response to inquiries.