A division within the People’s Alliance Party became apparent during its general assembly in Lautoka, where members raised concerns about the party’s position on the nomination of Fiji’s next President. Supporters gathered at Hotel 2000 questioned whether a nominee had been proposed, especially as the current President’s term is nearing its conclusion.
President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere was appointed by the FijiFirst government on October 22, 2021, and took the oath of office a month later. According to the 2013 Constitution, the President of Fiji is appointed by Parliament for a three-year term, leading to speculation regarding potential successors.
Party leader and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that no formal motion to nominate a candidate was presented during the assembly. He mentioned that after the 2022 elections, various factions sought to influence both the President and the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, but both individuals resisted such pressures and remained steadfast in their roles.
“We discussed who should take up the presidency and who would be the party’s nominee,” Mr. Rabuka stated. He indicated that the current President was aware of these discussions, particularly as social media and internal disagreements may heighten the situation.
Mr. Rabuka cautioned against nominating someone else, pointing out that historically no Fijian President has served only one term. “In deference to the previous government that appointed Tui Macuata, we should give him another term,” he remarked. “He has performed well, acted within the Constitution, and deserves our respect.”
The meeting saw the attendance of only a few PA ministers, including Mr. Rabuka, Manoa Kamikamica, Vatimi Rayalu, Sakiasi Tubuna, Esrom Immanuel, and Jese Saukuru.