New Speaker of Parliament on the Horizon: Who is Justice Filimoni Jitoko?

Retired High Court Judge Justice Filimoni Jitoko is poised to assume the role of Speaker of Parliament in Fiji, following the anticipated vacancy created by Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu’s appointment as President. This transition is set to take place during a special sitting of Parliament on Tuesday morning, where members will convene to formalize the new appointment.

Last week, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu received overwhelming support from Members of Parliament, leading to his election as President. In a recent interview, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka affirmed his intention to nominate Justice Jitoko for the position of the Speaker, a decision that has garnered the Cabinet’s approval.

Justice Jitoko has an impressive background, having served as chief justice of the Nauru Supreme Court from 2017 and as Registrar prior to that. He earned his law degree from Victoria University in New Zealand after completing his initial studies at the University of the South Pacific in 1969.

According to Fiji’s 2013 Constitution, the role of the Speaker becomes vacant either before the first parliamentary meeting after a general election or when an individual assumes another public office. The Constitution mandates that, during its first sitting after a general election, Parliament must elect a Speaker who is not currently a member of Parliament but meets the qualifications for such a position.

This change in leadership presents an opportunity for Justice Jitoko to bring his extensive legal expertise and experience to the parliamentary arena, potentially enhancing the governance and legislative processes in Fiji. This appointment signifies a commitment to upholding democratic values and continuity in leadership during a pivotal time for the nation.

Summary: Justice Filimoni Jitoko is expected to be appointed as the new Speaker of Parliament in Fiji as Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu transitions to the presidency. Parliament will hold a special meeting to elect the new Speaker. Jitoko’s legal experience and prior positions suggest he will be an asset in this new role.