A division within the People’s Alliance Party was highlighted during its general assembly in Lautoka yesterday, as members expressed concerns regarding the party’s position on the nomination of Fiji’s next President.
Attendees at Hotel 2000 raised questions about whether a candidate had been proposed, especially with the current President’s term nearing its end. Ratu Wiliame Katonivere was appointed by the FijiFirst government on October 22, 2021, and took his oath of office a month later.
According to the 2013 Constitution, Fiji’s President is elected by Parliament for a three-year term, leading to speculation about potential successors. Party leader and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that no official motion to nominate a new candidate was presented at the assembly.
Rabuka noted that, after the 2022 elections, several groups attempted to pressure both the President and the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), but both individuals resisted such influences and maintained their positions.
“We discussed who should take up the presidency and who would be the party’s nominee,” Rabuka explained, adding that the current President was made aware of these discussions, particularly in light of social media activity and internal party divisions that could heighten tensions.
Rabuka cautioned that nominating a different candidate would be inappropriate, as no Fijian President has ever completed only one term. “In deference to the previous government that appointed Tui Macuata, we should give him another term,” he asserted. “He’s performed well, acted within the Constitution, and deserves our respect.”
Attendance at the meeting was limited, with only a few PA ministers, including Rabuka, Manoa Kamikamica, Vatimi Rayalu, Sakiasi Tubuna, Esrom Immanuel, and Jese Saukuru present.