Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has rejected calls for his resignation, which were prompted by criticism from Unity Fiji leader Savenaca Narube. Narube’s demand came in the wake of the government’s unsuccessful attempt to secure support for the Constitution Amendment Bill 2025, which he characterized as a major misstep indicative of Rabuka’s leadership shortcomings.
In his defense, Rabuka emphasized that the authority to determine his position lies solely with Parliament, stating, “Only Parliament has the authority to decide on my position. First secure a mandate to be in Parliament.” He also noted that he had been encouraged to pursue discussions regarding the constitutional amendment on a bilateral basis with the Leader of the Opposition.
Rabuka’s remarks resonate with those made by Lands Minister Filimoni Vosarogo, who dismissed Narube’s calls for resignation as “laughable.” Vosarogo highlighted the stark contrast in political support between them, noting that Narube garnered a mere 1.45% of the vote while Rabuka secured over 16%, reflecting a broader public backing. He also pointed out that the recent parliamentary vote, which ended with the amendment’s rejection by just one vote, demonstrates the inherent difficulties tied to constitutional reform rather than an outright leadership failure.
Despite this, Narube stands firm on his position, arguing that leadership challenges are significant and calling for a greater emphasis on political credibility ahead of the upcoming 2026 elections. He advocates for voters to prioritize leaders committed to genuine public service over those pursuing personal ambitions.
As Fiji continues to navigate its political landscape, this situation brings to light critical discussions surrounding governance, accountability, and civic engagement. While tensions persist, there remains a hopeful outlook that increasing public involvement will lead to a more transparent and effective governance model that meets the needs of all its citizens. This ongoing process has the potential to not only tackle current challenges but also solidify the nation’s unity and resilience for the future.
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