Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to run in the 2026 General Election. This confirmation comes despite his recent advocacy for increased youth and women leadership within his political party during a meeting in Lautoka.
When questioned about his possible candidacy for the upcoming election, Rabuka responded affirmatively, stating, “Yes, I will.” His declaration has also dispelled rumors of a potential snap election that had circulated within party ranks.
Rabuka’s leadership has faced scrutiny following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner, particularly as she herself is under investigation by the agency. Critics have raised concerns about her appointment coinciding with the significant legal challenges facing the Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, who is awaiting charges from FICAC.
Although the appointment of the FICAC commissioner is the responsibility of the Judicial Services Commission, many have anticipated that the Prime Minister would intervene given the complications surrounding the situation. Prasad’s case is currently on hold while it undergoes a review by the newly appointed commissioner.
Political leaders are urging the Prime Minister to conduct an inquiry into the appointment, arguing that it undermines the independence of the corruption watchdog. The Prime Minister has not yet provided further updates on this issue. Meanwhile, Malimali’s case has been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and is now with the Criminal Investigations Department.
In other news, Prime Minister Rabuka has indicated that the coalition government will soon select a nominee for the presidency. While Rabuka previously suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere might be suitable for another term, this idea faced opposition during a recent assembly of the People’s Alliance in Lautoka. Rabuka confirmed that discussions regarding a nominee will take place shortly, as Ratu Wiliame’s first term concludes this November.