Internal divisions within Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s The People’s Alliance (PA) party appear to have caused a delay in the Presidential nomination process in Parliament. The nomination for the new President was scheduled as the fourth item on the agenda but was unexpectedly withdrawn due to disagreements among party members regarding the proposed candidates.
Prime Minister Rabuka, who has not revealed his preferred nominee, acknowledged that concerns were raised about several candidates brought forward. “I will not divulge details, but suffice to say that there was some discomfort with the nominees, which was brought to my attention by the Honourable Speaker,” he stated.
Rabuka added that he requested to withdraw the nomination, emphasizing that it was necessary for fairness to both sides before proceeding with a process clouded in uncertainty regarding the nominees.
Sources suggest that the Government initially favored Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, with anticipated support from the Group of Nine bloc led by Ioane Naivalurua. However, rival factions within the PA party are advocating for alternative candidates such as Ratu Epenisa Cakobau, also known as The Vunivalu, and Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci, Tui Nadi. These candidates were mentioned during a recent annual general assembly held in the Western region.
Additionally, other coalition parties reportedly support the Prime Minister’s recommendation to extend the current term of Ratu Wiliame Katonivere as President of Fiji. Meanwhile, Ratu Vuniyani has expressed surprise at his nomination but acknowledged receiving backing from PA members in various divisions. “When I was informed that three divisions had nominated me, I chose not to turn them down,” he said, adding that he felt prepared to assume the role of President of Fiji.
His recent resignation as party president during an executive council meeting has further fueled speculation regarding his candidacy.