Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to run in the upcoming 2026 General Election. This confirmation comes despite his recent advocacy for increased youth and women’s leadership within his political party during a meeting in Lautoka. When questioned about his electoral plans, Mr. Rabuka responded decisively, stating, “Yes, I will.”
His announcement dispels rumors circulating within party circles about a potential snap election. Recently, Mr. Rabuka’s leadership has drawn attention, particularly following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner, while she is herself under investigation by the same agency. Critics have raised concerns about her appointment occurring at a time when Finance Minister Biman Prasad is expected to face FICAC charges.
Although the Judicial Services Commission is responsible for appointing the FICAC commissioner, many anticipated that the Prime Minister, as the head of Government, would intervene as the situation became contentious. Minister Prasad’s case is currently on hold while awaiting a review by the newly appointed commissioner. Political leaders have urged the Prime Minister to take action and conduct an inquiry into the appointment, describing it as a potential violation of the corruption watchdog’s independence.
As of now, Prime Minister Rabuka has not provided any further updates regarding this situation, although Ms. Malimali’s case has been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution and is currently with the Criminal Investigations Department.
In other developments, Prime Minister Rabuka has indicated that the coalition Government will soon decide on a nominee for the President position. He previously suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere could be suitable for another term; however, this notion faced opposition during a recent People’s Alliance assembly in Lautoka. Mr. Rabuka confirmed that discussions regarding the nomination will take place soon, as Ratu Wiliame’s first term is set to conclude this November.