Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to contest in the 2026 General Election. This declaration comes even as he advocates for increased youth and female leadership in his political party during a recent meeting in Lautoka. When questioned about his plans for the upcoming election, Mr. Rabuka responded affirmatively, saying, “Yes, I will.”
This announcement dispels recent rumors circulating within party circles regarding a potential snap election. Mr. Rabuka has recently faced scrutiny following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), amidst her own investigation by the agency.
The timing of Ms. Malimali’s appointment has raised concerns, particularly as she was appointed while Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, was expected to face charges from FICAC. Although the appointment of the FICAC commissioner is the responsibility of the Judicial Services Commission (JSC), there are expectations for the Prime Minister to take action in light of the unfolding situation.
Currently, Mr. Prasad’s case is paused pending a review from the newly appointed commissioner. Political leaders have urged the Prime Minister to intervene and initiate a board of inquiry into Ms. Malimali’s appointment, which they argue compromises the integrity of the corruption watchdog. At this point, the Prime Minister has not provided an update regarding the situation.
Additionally, Ms. Malimali’s case has been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution and is under investigation by the Criminal Investigations Department.
In other news, Prime Minister Rabuka has indicated that the coalition Government will soon decide on a nominee for the presidential position. While Mr. Rabuka previously suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere was suitable for another term, this proposal faced opposition during a recent assembly of the People’s Alliance in Lautoka. Mr. Rabuka confirmed that the Government will convene shortly to discuss the nomination. Ratu Wiliame’s first term is set to conclude this November.