Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intentions to participate in the 2026 General Election. This confirmation comes despite his recent advocacy for increased representation of youth and women within his political party during a meeting in Lautoka. When questioned about his plans for the upcoming election, Mr. Rabuka responded assertively, stating, “Yes, I will.”
His declaration has also dispelled rumors circulating about a potential snap election within party ranks. The Prime Minister’s leadership has faced scrutiny following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), particularly as she is currently under investigation by the very agency she now leads.
The timing of Ms. Malimali’s appointment has raised concerns, especially given that it occurred when Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, was anticipated to face charges from FICAC. While the commission’s appointments are overseen by the Judicial Services Commission, many have called for the Prime Minister to take action as the head of the government amid uncertainties surrounding the situation.
Mr. Prasad’s case is currently on hold, pending a review by the new commissioner. Political leaders have urged the Prime Minister to conduct an inquiry into the appointment, claiming it undermines the independence of the anti-corruption agency. An update on this issue from the Prime Minister is still awaited.
Additionally, Ms. Malimali’s case has been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and is now under the purview of the Criminal Investigations Department.
In related news, Prime Minister Rabuka has indicated that the coalition government will soon decide on a nominee for the presidential position. He had previously suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere would be suitable for another term; however, this notion received opposition during the People’s Alliance assembly held in Lautoka a fortnight ago. In a recent interview, Mr. Rabuka confirmed that discussions regarding the presidential nominee would take place shortly, as Ratu Wiliame’s current term concludes this November.