Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has dismissed allegations suggesting he is stifling dissent within the Coalition Government and his political party. In an interview with FijiLive, Rabuka addressed the new voting procedure in Parliament, where Members of Parliament (MPs) now stand to declare their votes publicly, a practice that aligns with parliamentary traditions worldwide.
This change marks the first time MPs were called to openly express their support for the President’s nomination and appointment, as well as during the election of the new Speaker. While there are indications of tensions within the Coalition, particularly concerning factions in the People’s Alliance, Rabuka emphasized the importance of adhering to parliamentary protocols. He noted that he is unaware of any moves to undermine his leadership, asserting that the new voting procedure was developed with the assistance of a legal team from the United Nations Development Programme, in collaboration with Parliament’s House Committee on Standing Orders.
Rabuka’s leadership was reflected in the recent vote tally, where he secured 28 votes against former Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama’s 27. Despite the challenges he faces, Rabuka remains committed to following established parliamentary practices while navigating the complexities of coalition governance.
This article highlights Rabuka’s dedication to upholding democratic processes and the importance of transparency in government. It also presents a critical moment in Fiji’s political landscape as leaders adapt to new procedures that could foster greater accountability. The Prime Minister’s ongoing dialogue about these changes could serve to strengthen unity within his party and the Coalition, paving the way for constructive collaboration in the future.
Overall, the emphasis on transparent voting practices can be seen as a positive step towards enhancing democratic governance in Fiji.
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