New Speaker of Fiji’s Parliament: A Journey of Diplomacy and Law

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed his congratulations to Justice Filimone Jitoko on his recent appointment as the new Speaker of Parliament for the Republic of Fiji. Highlighting Justice Jitoko’s extensive and distinguished career, Rabuka emphasized the wealth of experience he brings to this important position.

Justice Jitoko, a graduate of the University of the South Pacific in 1969, furthered his education by earning a Bachelor of Laws from Victoria University in Wellington, New Zealand, and was admitted to the New Zealand Bar in 1978. His impressive background includes significant roles in both diplomacy and law. In 1980, he received certificates in Multilateral Negotiations and International Diplomacy, subsequently serving as Fiji’s Secretary to the missions in New York and Washington, D.C. He then returned to Fiji to become the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court from 1985 to 1987.

Following this, he was appointed as Solicitor General of the Fiji Government for six years and later served as Secretary to Cabinet from 1993 to 1996. Justice Jitoko’s diplomatic career included ambassadorships in countries such as Israel, Brussels, and Denmark.

In 2002, he returned to Fiji as a High Court Judge, serving until 2009, and maintained an international presence as Chief Justice of the Nauru Supreme Court from 2000 to 2017 while also acting as Registrar in the latter years.

Prime Minister Rabuka expressed confidence that Justice Jitoko’s vast experiences will enable him to excel in his role as Speaker of Parliament, signaling a hopeful outlook for Fiji’s legislative future under his leadership.

This appointment reflects not only the desire for strong governance but also the importance of having experienced individuals in key positions, which can lead to more effective and informed decision-making in the parliamentary process. With such a profound background in law and diplomacy, Justice Jitoko may help bridge gaps and enhance collaboration within the government, potentially ushering in a new era of progress for Fiji.