Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that Ratu Wiliame Katonivere is their candidate for Fiji’s presidency. In his statement, Rabuka indicated that the presidential election is scheduled to occur during a special session of Parliament at the end of October.
Rabuka mentioned that he withdrew his previous nominee for the presidency due to some concerns raised about certain candidates. He noted that the Speaker, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, had requested assurances that any doubts regarding nominations were addressed before proceeding.
There were specific concerns regarding allegations against the President that needed clarification. However, Rabuka stated that the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption confirmed that the investigations into these complaints have been concluded.
The Prime Minister explained that the preliminary investigation sought help from the Financial Intelligence Unit to gather financial information about Ratu Wiliame. The evidence obtained was sufficient to refute the allegations made against him. FICAC also verified the assets and liabilities declared in the FIU report, concluding that there was no supporting evidence for the claims raised by the complainant.
Rabuka confirmed that the investigation files have been officially closed, clearing Ratu Wiliame Katonivere of any allegations.