The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) chairman, Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, has advocated for President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere to be granted another term in office. Ratu Viliame praised Katonivere’s exceptional leadership, especially during the challenging period following the 2022 election. He emphasized the difficulty of prioritizing the nation’s interests over personal safety, highlighting the selflessness required to maintain his oath of office amid such pressures.
Ratu Viliame noted that traditionally, past presidents of Fiji have completed two terms, with the exception of the late Gone Turaga na Tui Nayau, whose term ended prematurely under controversial circumstances. He pointed out that, according to the 1997 Constitution, it was the GCC that recommended presidential candidates from one of the three confederacies: Kubuna, Burebasaga, and Tovata. However, the 2013 Constitution shifted this responsibility to the current members of Parliament.
He stressed the GCC’s goal to remain independent and not entangled in party politics, while mentioning the historical trend of presidents serving two terms. Ratu Viliame expressed that, in his view, Katonivere has navigated through tumultuous times and deserves consideration for a second term. He noted that the respect among GCC members would likely favor retaining the incumbent if left to their decision.
However, he expressed concern over the political implications of such decisions, stating that injecting political influence into the choice of the presidency risks undermining the traditional relationships among the chiefs. He called for a reevaluation of aspects of the 2013 Constitution and urged that lawmakers prioritize the nation’s welfare as they guide Fiji towards a prosperous future.