Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry are in disagreement over the nomination of Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu for the presidency. Chaudhry criticized Ratu Naiqama’s past actions, claiming they disqualify him from being Fiji’s Head of State. He emphasized that the presidency should be held by someone of unquestionable integrity, who is accepted by all communities as a unifying figure.
Chaudhry pointed out that Ratu Naiqama has a controversial political history, referencing his past collaboration with the George Speight group during the 2000 coup and alleging involvement in treasonous activities. He reminded that Ratu Naiqama was convicted for participating in an unlawful assembly at the Sukanaivalu Barracks, leading to an eight-month prison sentence in 2005.
Criticism has also been directed at Prime Minister Rabuka for perceived favoritism in appointing individuals from his own province to key positions. Chaudhry noted that Ratu Naiqama’s parliamentary membership was suspended for two years after he made derogatory comments about a former speaker, and he has faced backlash for allegedly racist remarks against another parliament member.
In response, Rabuka defended Ratu Naiqama’s qualifications under the 2013 Constitution, similar to how Chaudhry himself was allowed to run for office despite past convictions. According to the Constitution, candidates for Parliament or the presidency must not have been convicted of serious offenses within designated timeframes.
Rabuka argued that as a former Leader of the Opposition and the current Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Naiqama is suitably qualified to lead as Head of State. He also highlighted Ratu Naiqama’s advanced education, including a Master’s Degree in International Development and a Post Graduate Diploma in Integrated Rural and Regional Development Planning.
Leave a comment