A rift within the People’s Alliance Party was revealed during its general assembly in Lautoka on Sunday, with members raising concerns about the party’s position on the nomination of Fiji’s next President. The question arose from supporters at Hotel 2000, who inquired whether a nominee had been proposed as the current President’s term approaches its conclusion.
Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, appointed by the FijiFirst government on October 22, 2021, officially took 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 about possible successors.
Party leader and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that no motion to nominate a candidate had been formally presented at the assembly. He noted that since the 2022 elections, various factions had attempted to influence both the President and the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF). However, both have resisted such pressures, maintaining their positions firmly.
Rabuka revealed discussions regarding potential presidential candidates and nominees, assuring that the current President was aware of these talks, especially in light of social media and internal divisions that could amplify the situation. He cautioned against nominating a different candidate, pointing out that no Fijian President has ever only served a single term.
“In recognition of the past government that appointed Tui Macuata, we should allow him another term,” Rabuka argued. “He has performed well, acted in accordance with the Constitution, and deserves our respect.”
Attendance at the meeting was limited, with only a few PA ministers present, including Rabuka, Manoa Kamikamica, Vatimi Rayalu, Sakiasi Tubuna, Esrom Immanuel, and Jese Saukuru.