Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, the current Speaker of Parliament, will be the government’s candidate for the new President of Fiji when Parliament meets at the end of this month. This decision follows the formal withdrawal of Ratu Wiliame Katonivere from his nomination for a second presidential term.
In a statement issued early this morning, Mr. Rabuka noted, “On 17th October 2024, I wrote to His Excellency the President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere seeking his approval and consent to be nominated for a second term as President and Head of State under section 84(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji. On Monday, 21st October 2024, I received formal communication from His Excellency the President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, wherein he withdrew his name from nomination for a second term.”
Mr. Rabuka also took the opportunity to commend Ratu Wiliame for his dedicated service to the country. “I want to pay tribute to His Excellency the President Na Gone Turaga Bale na Tui Macuata Ratu Wiliame Katonivere and acknowledge his service to the nation as our President. His Excellency has conducted his duties as Head of State with integrity and forbearance. His steady hand at the Presidency ensured a smooth transition in Government following the December 2022 general election. He was diligent in ensuring respect for the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji despite those who sought to sway his resolve in upholding the law.”
He highlighted the unprecedented freedoms experienced by the people of Fiji during Ratu Wiliame’s term and praised his efforts to symbolize unity and integrity both domestically and internationally. Ratu Wiliame also opened State House to all Fijians and participated in significant diplomatic missions with grace.
To express the nation’s gratitude to Ratu Wiliame at the conclusion of his term, a formal vakasenuqanuqa ceremony will be held in accordance with traditional protocol.