A rift in the People’s Alliance Party emerged during its general assembly held in Lautoka yesterday, as members raised concerns regarding the party’s position on the nomination of Fiji’s next President. Supporters at Hotel 2000 inquired whether a candidate had been nominated, particularly with the current President’s term nearing its end.
Ratu Wiliame Katonivere was appointed as President by the FijiFirst government on October 22, 2021, and he took the oath of office a month later. According to the 2013 Constitution, Fiji’s President is appointed by Parliament for a three-year term, prompting speculation about potential successors.
Party leader and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka clarified that no official motion to nominate a candidate had been presented during the assembly. He mentioned that various factions attempted to influence both the President and the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) after the 2022 elections, but both officials stood firm against such pressures.
Rabuka indicated that discussions about who should assume the presidency and who would be the party’s nominee had taken place, and he assured that the current President was aware of these conversations, particularly in light of concerns that social media and internal divisions could exacerbate the situation.
He cautioned that it would be inappropriate to nominate a different candidate, noting that historically, no Fijian President has served only a single term. Rabuka expressed the view that, in recognition of the previous government that appointed Tui Macuata, Katonivere should be granted another term, as he has performed well, adhered to the Constitution, and earned respect.
Only a small number of PA ministers attended the meeting, including Rabuka, Manoa Kamikamica, Vatimi Rayalu, Sakiasi Tubuna, Esrom Immanuel, and Jese Saukuru.