Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that he has held discussions with nine Independent Members of Parliament. Rabuka revealed that he has informed the leaders of the National Federation Party and the Social Democratic Liberal Party about these discussions.
In a conversation with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka, Rabuka said both leaders were receptive to the idea.
“I consulted them this morning. And as far as I am concerned, the Coalition Partners remain strong as initially formed,” Rabuka stated.
He confirmed that he met with the nine Independent MPs yesterday. While no agreements were made, the purpose of the meeting was for the nine MPs to express their support for him as the Leader of the Government from the Opposition.
Rabuka mentioned that he plans to speak with the Speaker of Parliament regarding provisions for the nine MPs if they do not receive support from the Opposition Caucus. This could involve establishing a separate facility to serve their constituents.
The Prime Minister did not dismiss the possibility of amending the 2013 Constitution with the support of the independent MPs, suggesting that such an amendment could result from their cooperation.