Professor Biman Prasad, the leader of the National Federation Party (NFP) in Parliament, has clarified the party’s leadership structure ahead of their Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for tomorrow in Sigatoka.
In an interview, Prof Prasad stated that the NFP Constitution outlines that the leader is not appointed during the AGM. He emphasized that the Parliamentary Leader operates independently from the party’s organizational framework, explaining that the founders of the party intentionally established that Members of Parliament are accountable to the NFP’s membership.
“The AGM is chaired by the Party President and will include reports from the Management Board or Working Committee, which is also led by the President. I will attend the Convention tomorrow as a regular member,” Prof Prasad noted.
He mentioned that all positions for office bearers will be available for contest during the meeting, including roles such as the President, Vice-President, General Secretary, Treasurer, and Registered Officer.
“I am not an office bearer; my role is as the Parliamentary Leader. Our Constitution explicitly states that the leadership position is not subject to election at the AGM,” he added.
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted that this Convention will mark a significant event, being the first instance of a sitting Prime Minister addressing the gathering, with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka slated to be the keynote speaker.
Financial and activity reports will be presented at the Convention, and Prof Prasad encouraged members to participate in the meeting to engage with the five NFP members in the Coalition Government.
“They will have the opportunity to raise issues and concerns, and we will be ready to address any questions from the public and media,” Prof Prasad remarked.
The convention is set to commence at 11 AM at Nadroga Sangam School in Malaqereqere, Sigatoka.