Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has reflected on the political challenges faced during the Coalition Government’s journey over the past two years. Speaking recently, he expressed that he was labeled a “snake” and faced numerous accusations, including the misuse of racial issues ahead of the 2022 General Election.
Mr. Rabuka recounted his experience of being demonized and insulted, recalling similar treatment he and Jai Ram Reddy encountered during his previous term as Prime Minister from 1992 to 1999. He noted that both he and Professor Biman Prasad experienced a similar atmosphere of gutter politics during the 2018 and 2022 elections, which created apprehension among voters, particularly within the Indo-Fijian community.
He mentioned, “I could sense this fear among the Indo-Fijian electorate. Perhaps I should introduce myself again—I am Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka, whose favourite dish is dhal and rice,” indicating a desire to connect with the community.
Rabuka emphasized that Professor Prasad would not have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding for a post-election coalition government without mutual trust. He stated, “I want to, once and for all, put an end to fear and doubts about my sincerity as a national leader, particularly to the Indo-Fijian community.”
He reassured the community of his commitment to collaboratively rebuild Fiji’s future, promising that by the time the People’s Coalition Government approaches the next election, the electoral landscape will differ significantly from what has been experienced in the past.