A rift within the People’s Alliance Party became evident at its general assembly held in Lautoka yesterday, as members raised concerns regarding the party’s position on nominating the next President of Fiji. This query was voiced by supporters at Hotel 2000, who inquired whether a nominee had been proposed in light of the current President’s impending term 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 term of three years, leading to speculation about who might succeed him.
Prime Minister and party leader Sitiveni Rabuka stated that no official motion to nominate a candidate was raised during the assembly. He mentioned that after the 2022 elections, various factions attempted to pressure both the President and the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF). However, Rabuka noted that both officials resisted this pressure and remained steadfast in their roles.
“We discussed who should take up the presidency and who would be the party’s nominee,” Rabuka said, adding that the current President was aware of these discussions, especially since social media and internal divisions could heighten the matter.
Rabuka cautioned against nominating an alternative candidate, pointing out that no Fijian President has ever served only a single term. “In deference to the previous government that appointed Tui Macuata, we should give him another term,” the leader emphasized. “He’s performed well, acted within the Constitution, and deserves our respect.”
Only a few PA ministers attended the meeting, including Mr. Rabuka, Manoa Kamikamica, Vatimi Rayalu, Sakiasi Tubuna, Esrom Immanuel, and Jese Saukuru.