Opposition member Mosese Bulitavu has come to the defense of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s choice to nominate Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, the Speaker of the House, for the presidency. Bulitavu stated that Rabuka’s decision aligns with the traditional order regarding which confederacy should assume the role.
In a social media post, Bulitavu recalled that from the Burebasaga Confederacy, Ratu Josefa Iloilovatu served as the Head of State for an extended period, from 2000 until his passing in 2011. He held the position for nine years, after which the presidency transitioned to the Kubuna confederacy, represented by Ratu Epeli Nailatikau for six years, from 2009 to 2015. Rotuma, part of Kubuna, held the presidency for an additional six years, bringing the total for Kubuna to 12 years.
Bulitavu elaborated on the transfer of the presidential role from Tui Macuata Ratu Wiliame Katonivere to the Tui Cakau, highlighting it as a gesture of respect towards the chief, who leads the Tovata confederacy. Tui Macuata has only served as President of Fiji for three years and has formally requested to withdraw from consideration for another term. Therefore, the Prime Minister has nominated the Tui Cakau for the second term in the Tovata Confederacy.
This decision respects the chiefly titles involved, as the Tui Cakau is an elder relative to the current President, being the high chief of the Tovata Confederacy, which encompasses the four provinces of Cakaudrove, Bua, Macuata, and Lau. Bulitavu emphasized the special relationship and respect shared between these two leaders, noting that the withdrawal of Tui Macuata from nomination signifies deep respect and humility, deeply rooted in indigenous culture and tradition.
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