New Speaker of Fijian Parliament: A Legal Luminary Takes the Helm

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed his congratulations to Justice Filimone Jitoko on his recent appointment as the new Speaker of the Parliament of Fiji. He emphasized that Justice Jitoko brings with him a remarkable career and extensive experience, which will be invaluable in his new position.

Justice Jitoko graduated from the University of the South Pacific in 1969, after which he earned a Bachelor of Laws from Victoria University in Wellington, New Zealand. He was admitted to the New Zealand Bar in 1978. His impressive professional journey includes certificates in Multilateral Negotiations and International Diplomacy, which he obtained in 1980 while serving at Fiji’s missions in New York and Washington, D.C. He later returned to Fiji and served as Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court from 1985 to 1987.

Following this, he took on the role of Solicitor General for the Fijian government for six years, and was Secretary to Cabinet from 1993 to 1996. His diplomatic career included significant roles as Fiji’s Ambassador in countries such as Israel, Belgium, and Denmark.

In 2002, Jitoko returned to Fiji and served as a High Court Judge until 2009. He also had an international dimension to his legal career, serving as Chief Justice of the Nauru Supreme Court from 2000 to 2017, with additional responsibilities as Registrar from 2015 to 2017.

Rabuka expressed confidence that Justice Jitoko’s extensive background will enable him to serve Fiji exceptionally well as Speaker of Parliament.

This appointment signals a continuation of experienced leadership in Fijian politics, which can be a hopeful sign for the country’s legislative direction. The wealth of knowledge and experience that Justice Jitoko brings might help foster a collaborative and forward-thinking environment within the Parliament, contributing positively to Fiji’s governance.

In summary, the commendation from Prime Minister Rabuka highlights the significance of Justice Jitoko’s appointment, promising a period of capable leadership for Fiji’s Parliament.