Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to run in the 2026 General Election. This declaration comes despite his recent advocacy for increased youth and female representation within his political party during a meeting in Lautoka.
When queried about his plans for the upcoming polls, Mr. Rabuka responded affirmatively, stating, “Yes, I will.” His confirmation also puts an end to rumors of a potential snap election circulating within party circles.
The Prime Minister’s leadership has been under scrutiny following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner for the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), even as she is currently under investigation by the agency. Ms. Malimali’s appointment has raised concerns because it coincides with the timing of charges expected to be filed against Minister for Finance Biman Prasad by FICAC.
Though the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) is responsible for appointing the FICAC commissioner, many have anticipated that Mr. Rabuka, as the head of the Government, would intervene amid growing controversy. Mr. Prasad’s case is currently suspended, awaiting a review from the new commissioner.
Political leaders have urged the Prime Minister to take action and initiate a board of inquiry regarding the appointment, criticizing it as a potential violation of the independence of the corruption watchdog. Mr. Rabuka has yet to comment on this issue.
Additionally, Ms. Malimali’s case has been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution and is now with the Criminal Investigations Department.
In other news, the Prime Minister has indicated that the coalition Government will soon decide on a nominee for the presidential position. While he previously suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere would be suitable for another term, this view faced opposition during a gathering of the People’s Alliance in Lautoka two weeks ago. In a recent interview, Mr. Rabuka confirmed that the Government plans to convene shortly to discuss the nomination. Ratu Wiliame’s current term concludes this November.