Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to participate in the 2026 General Election. This declaration comes despite his recent advocacy for increased youth and women leadership within his political party during a meeting in Lautoka. When questioned about his plans for the upcoming election, Rabuka responded affirmatively, stating, “Yes, I will.”
His announcement dispels recent rumors circulating within party circles regarding a potential snap election. Rabuka’s leadership has been under scrutiny, particularly following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), who is currently under investigation by the same agency. The timing of Malimali’s appointment has raised concerns, especially with Finance Minister Biman Prasad reportedly facing charges by FICAC.
Although the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) is responsible for appointing the FICAC commissioner, there has been public expectation for the Prime Minister to intervene amid growing complications surrounding the situation. Prasad’s case is currently on hold while awaiting a review from the new commissioner. Various political leaders have urged Rabuka to conduct an inquiry into the appointment, claiming it undermines the independence of the corruption watchdog. The Prime Minister has not yet commented further on the issue.
In another matter, 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 could be suitable for another term; however, this suggestion faced opposition during a recent assembly of the People’s Alliance in Lautoka. In an interview, Rabuka confirmed that the Government would convene soon to deliberate on a nominee, as Ratu Wiliame’s first term concludes this November.