A rift within the People’s Alliance Party emerged during its general assembly held in Lautoka yesterday, as members raised concerns regarding the party’s position on the nomination of Fiji’s next President. Supporters voiced their questions at Hotel 2000, inquiring whether a nominee had been proposed, especially as the current President’s term draws to a close.
Ratu Wiliame Katonivere was appointed by the FijiFirst government on October 22, 2021, and took his oath of office a month later. According to the 2013 Constitution, Fiji’s President is appointed by Parliament for a three-year term, leading to speculation about potential successors.
Party leader and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that no formal motion to nominate a candidate was presented at the assembly. He mentioned that after the 2022 elections, various factions attempted to influence both the President and the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF). However, Rabuka noted that both figures resisted such pressures, remaining steadfast in their positions.
“We discussed who should take up the presidency and who would be the party’s nominee,” Rabuka said. He also indicated that the current President was made aware of these discussions, particularly due to concerns about escalating issues on social media and within the party.
Rabuka cautioned against nominating anyone else, emphasizing that no Fijian President has ever served only one term. “In respect for the previous government that appointed Tui Macuata, we should grant him another term,” he asserted. “He has performed well, adhered to the Constitution, and deserves our respect.”
Only a few ministers from the People’s Alliance were in attendance at the meeting, including Rabuka, Manoa Kamikamica, Vatimi Rayalu, Sakiasi Tubuna, Esrom Immanuel, and Jese Saukuru.