Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed concern over potential waning support from the Fijian community in the United States as the nation approaches the 2026 elections. This revelation follows a public consultation event held in Santa Rosa, California, which saw a lower turnout than expected. When confronted with the possibility of losing support, Mr. Rabuka responded succinctly, indicating acknowledgment of the concern.
During the same interaction, he addressed inquiries related to the recent deportation of 353 Fijians from the U.S. While he clarified that his earlier comments were directed primarily at those who attended the meeting, he noted the participation of others who joined virtually. The Prime Minister encouraged a broader understanding by stating that many of those who didn’t attend had engaged through online questions.
Fijian resident Liviana Qoro criticized Mr. Rabuka’s handling of engagement with expatriates, claiming that he has “turned his back” on them despite the support they had extended during his visit. She emphasized that not all Fijians in the U.S. are undocumented, calling out the negative perceptions surrounding those labeled as overstayers.
The broader context surrounding these events indicates the impact of U.S. immigration policies, particularly under the Trump Administration, which sought to address illegal immigration by classifying individuals who overstayed their visas as criminal offenders. The deportation orders have heightened concerns within the Fijian community, especially given that remittances from Fijians abroad significantly contribute to Fiji’s economy.
This consultation occurred against the backdrop of Mr. Rabuka’s recent support for U.S. immigration initiatives aimed at deporting illegal immigrants and his ongoing commitment to reviewing Fiji’s own immigration policies, which include a significant increase in illegal immigrants in the country and a lack of detention facilities for those crossing borders improperly.
In light of these ongoing challenges, Mr. Rabuka’s administration remains focused on reforming immigration practices to balance enforcement with compassion, and his engagements highlight the government’s effort to connect with its diaspora. This approach presents a hopeful potential for developing strategies that could offer understanding and support for Fijians both at home and abroad.
The rising number of illegal immigrants and the complexities of deportations underscore the critical need for reform, suggesting that proactive measures could lead to a more sustainable and humane immigration system in Fiji.
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