Former SODELPA general secretary Lenatasi Duru has partnered with members of the G16 Opposition to consider establishing a new political party. This move follows his resignation from SODELPA in December 2022, which was spurred by the party’s alliance with The People’s Alliance and the National Federation Party (NFP) to form a government. Duru has voiced significant concerns about the current Coalition government, particularly regarding the appointment of former FijiFirst parliamentarians in key ministerial roles.
In light of the Coalition’s challenges, Duru emphasized the necessity for astute political maneuvering, stating that the Prime Minister’s position remains precarious due to constant threats against the government. He noted the sacrifices made by SODELPA during coalition negotiations and has raised questions about the leadership’s current strategic direction and priorities. In this context, Duru aims to introduce a fresh perspective to Fiji’s political landscape, asserting, “We are trying to offer something different. Politics is a game where you play your cards and play them right.”
Duru also addressed the frustrations of the iTaukei community relating to unmet promises from the previous FijiFirst government. He assured that the new party’s manifesto and constitution would comprehensively address these issues, reinforcing a commitment to utilizing resources effectively for the benefit of the populace. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that the interests of the people receive priority in political discussions.
This initiative resonates with the sentiments of other G16 members, including Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu, who also plans to create a new political party comprising former FijiFirst members. These collective efforts signal a pivotal shift in the political landscape of Fiji, which aims to enhance democratic engagement as the nation approaches the 2026 general elections.
In summary, Lenatasi Duru’s collaboration with former FijiFirst politicians within the G16 highlights a significant evolution in Fiji’s political dynamics. Through this initiative, there is optimism for new ideas and governance approaches that address public concerns, potentially fostering a more inclusive and representative political environment. As the country prepares for its electoral future, the emergence of such political movements is a hopeful sign of revitalizing democracy and citizen engagement in Fiji.
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