The Coalition Government of Fiji faces division regarding nominees for the President of the Republic. Reports indicate that the Social Democratic Liberal Party and the National Federation Party are advocating for the reappointment of His Excellency Ratu Wiliame Katonivere for a second term. Other candidates mentioned include Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci and Ratu Naulu Mataitini, the Vunivalu of Nukunitabua.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, while speaking to FijiLive, refrained from naming his nominee, citing concerns raised by the Speaker regarding the nomination process. He noted he has withdrawn his own nomination, stating, “In fairness to both, we could not make the nomination while there was a cloud over our nominees.”
Despite the uncertainties, the nomination and appointment of the President were included in the Parliament’s agenda for discussion.
Iowane Naivalurua, leader of a supportive bloc of nine, expressed that they would align with the Government on issues of mutual interest, although he remarked that the Government had not communicated its preferred nominee to them. “This is politics at play. I understand that some names are being floated around, but I am unaware of the specifics,” he said. The Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu, did not provide a response to inquiries regarding the matter.