Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that Ratu Wiliame Katonivere is their nominee for the President of Fiji. In his statement, the Prime Minister indicated that the presidential election is set to occur during a special session of Parliament at the end of October.
Rabuka mentioned that some discomfort had arisen regarding certain presidential nominees, prompting him to withdraw his previous nominee for the election on Thursday. He explained that the Speaker, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, requested clarification on any doubts related to the nomination before proceeding. Concerns had been raised regarding an allegation against the President, making it essential to resolve any uncertainty.
The Prime Minister noted that the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) has confirmed that the investigations related to the complaints against the President have been concluded. He explained that the preliminary investigation sought assistance from the Financial Intelligence Unit regarding financial details related to Ratu Wiliame, and the information received was adequate to dismiss the allegations.
Rabuka stated that FICAC validated the assets and liabilities disclosed in the FIU report, and based on the inquiry’s findings, there is no evidence supporting the claims made by the complainant. He emphasized that the investigation files have been officially closed.