A schism within the People’s Alliance Party became evident during its general assembly in Lautoka yesterday, where members raised concerns regarding the party’s position on the nomination of Fiji’s next President. Questions emerged from supporters at Hotel 2000 about whether a nominee had been proposed, especially with the current President’s term nearing its conclusion.
Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, who was appointed by the FijiFirst government on October 22, 2021, officially took his oath a month later. According to the 2013 Constitution, the President of Fiji is selected by Parliament for a three-year term, leading to speculation about potential successors.
Party leader and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that there had been no formal motion to nominate a candidate presented at the assembly. He indicated that after the 2022 elections, various factions sought to influence both the President and the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), but both individuals remained steadfast in their positions.
“We discussed who should take up the presidency and who would be the party’s nominee,” Mr. Rabuka mentioned, noting that the current President had been made aware of these discussions due to the potential for social media to amplify internal conflicts.
Mr. Rabuka cautioned against nominating a different candidate, pointing out that no Fijian President has ever served only one term. “In deference to the previous government that appointed Tui Macuata, we should give him another term,” the party leader asserted, praising the President for his performance and adherence to the Constitution.
The meeting saw a limited turnout, with only a few PA ministers in attendance: Mr. Rabuka, Manoa Kamikamica, Vatimi Rayalu, Sakiasi Tubuna, Esrom Immanuel, and Jese Saukuru.