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 representation within his political party during a meeting in Lautoka.
When asked about his plans for the upcoming election, Mr. Rabuka responded without hesitation, stating, “Yes, I will.” This declaration also addresses ongoing rumors about a potential snap election within party discussions.
Mr. Rabuka’s leadership has recently faced scrutiny following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), especially as she is currently under investigation by the commission herself. Concerns have been raised regarding her appointment coinciding with anticipated charges against the Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, by FICAC.
While the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) is responsible for appointing the FICAC commissioner, many expected the Prime Minister to take action in light of the controversies surrounding this situation. The progress of Mr. Prasad’s case is on hold pending further review by the newly appointed commissioner.
Leaders from various political parties have urged the Prime Minister to intervene and initiate an inquiry into the appointment, claiming it undermines the independence of the corruption watchdog. An update from the Prime Minister regarding this situation is still awaited.
Meanwhile, the case involving Ms. Malimali has been referred to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and is now being handled by the Criminal Investigations Department.
In other developments, Prime Minister Rabuka stated that the coalition government will soon decide on a nominee for the Presidential position. Although he previously suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere could be suitable for another term, this view has faced opposition within the People’s Alliance discussions held in Lautoka two weeks ago. In a recent interview, Mr. Rabuka affirmed that the government would convene shortly to discuss potential nominees. Ratu Wiliame’s current term is set to conclude this November.