Opposition Member of Parliament Viliame Naupoto has stepped down from his position as Opposition whip in Parliament. This announcement was made by Speaker of Parliament Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu at the start of the session yesterday morning. Naupoto, now an independent MP, has expressed his support for Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for the rest of the parliamentary term. Independent Opposition MP Jone Usamate will temporarily fill the role until a permanent appointment is made.