Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed his experiences with personal insults and accusations of racial bias leading up to the 2022 General Election. In a recent reflection on the Coalition Government’s journey over the past two years, Mr. Rabuka acknowledged being labeled a “snake” and facing a barrage of accusations.
He stated, “I was demonised, accused of many things,” and emphasized that while he does not let personal attacks affect him, the fear created by such rhetoric among voters—particularly within the Indo-Fijian community—is concerning. Mr. Rabuka recalled similar experiences of facing derogatory remarks during his previous term as Prime Minister from 1992 to 1999.
He underscored the need for trust within the Coalition Government, stating that Professor Biman Prasad would not have partnered with him in forming a post-election coalition if there was distrust between them. Mr. Rabuka expressed his commitment to alleviating fears and doubts about his leadership, particularly among the Indo-Fijian population.
He assured the community, “Trust me when I say we are rebuilding Fiji’s future together, united as a three-party coalition government.” Looking ahead, he noted that by the time the People’s Coalition Government prepares for the next election, the political landscape would have transformed significantly from what had been historically experienced.