Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that he will run in the 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 plans for the upcoming election, Mr. Rabuka responded affirmatively, stating, “Yes, I will.”
His declaration also alleviates concerns regarding rumors of a possible snap election circulating within party discussions. Recently, Mr. Rabuka’s role has faced scrutiny following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), particularly as she herself is under investigation by the commission.
Ms. Malimali’s appointment has drawn criticism, especially since it occurred when Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, was set to face charges from FICAC. Although the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) is responsible for appointing the FICAC commissioner, there are expectations that the Prime Minister, as the head of government, would intervene amid the growing concerns surrounding this situation.
Mr. Prasad’s case is currently on hold as it awaits a review by the new commissioner. Political leaders have urged the Prime Minister to step in and conduct an inquiry into the appointment, alleging it undermines the independence of the anti-corruption agency. The Prime Minister has yet to provide any further updates on this issue. Meanwhile, Ms. Malimali’s situation has been referred to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and is now being handled by the Criminal Investigations Department.
On another note, Prime Minister Rabuka has indicated that the coalition government will soon decide on a nominee for the presidential position. He previously suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere is suitable for another term, though this was met with opposition during the People’s Alliance assembly in Lautoka two weeks ago. In a recent interview, Mr. Rabuka confirmed that the government will convene shortly to discuss potential nominees, as Ratu Wiliame’s first term is set to conclude this November.