Former SODELPA Leader Aims to Shake Up Fiji’s Political Landscape

Former SODELPA general secretary Lenatasi Duru is collaborating with members of the G16 Opposition to consider the formation of a new political party. This decision comes in the wake of his resignation from SODELPA in December 2022, prompted by the party’s coalition with The People’s Alliance and the National Federation Party (NFP).

Duru has voiced significant concerns regarding the dynamics of the current Coalition government, particularly the inclusion of former FijiFirst parliamentarians in ministerial roles. He emphasized that ongoing political maneuvering is necessary to maintain stability, stating, “Where the Prime Minister is coming from, he needs to secure his position, especially with Government constantly under threat.”

Reflecting on the sacrifices made by SODELPA during coalition negotiations, Duru called into question the leadership’s strategic direction, emphasizing the need for a different approach to politics. He remarked, “We are trying to offer something different. Politics is a game where you play your cards and play them right.”

In addressing the iTaukei community’s concerns regarding unmet expectations under the FijiFirst government, Duru assured that the new party’s forthcoming manifesto and constitution would explicitly aim to tackle these issues. He stressed the importance of effectively utilizing the resources and financial gains from previous administrations to better serve the public. “We just need to take time in making sure that those resources are utilized effectively,” he asserted.

The initiative aligns with the movements of other G16 members, including Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu, who also plans to create a new political party. This collective action signifies a notable shift in Fiji’s political landscape as various factions look to enhance democratic engagement leading up to the 2026 general elections.

Duru’s exploration of a new political party brings hope for a revitalized political environment in Fiji. It presents an opportunity for voters to engage with innovative ideas that prioritize community needs and expectations. With the developments in the political arena, there is optimism that these initiatives will lead to a more participatory and accountable governance framework, reflecting the aspirations of the Fijian populace moving forward.