Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka addressed accusations and negative labels he encountered during the lead-up to the 2022 General Election, stating that he was called a “snake” and faced various allegations. Reflecting on the political landscape over the past two years, Mr. Rabuka expressed that he is unfazed by personal insults, recalling similar experiences during his previous term as Prime Minister from 1992 to 1999 alongside Jai Ram Reddy.
He noted that both he and Professor Biman Prasad encountered harsh criticisms during the elections in 2018 and 2022, which created a sense of fear among the electorate, particularly within the Indo-Fijian community. To combat this fear, Mr. Rabuka emphasized the need to personally reintroduce himself, stating, “I am Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka, whose favourite dish is dhal and rice.”
Furthermore, he highlighted that the trust established between him and Mr. Prasad was crucial for signing the Memorandum of Understanding for a coalition government post-election. Mr. Rabuka called for an end to doubts regarding his sincerity as a national leader, particularly within the Indo-Fijian community, asserting that they are working together to build a better future for Fiji as a united three-party coalition government. He anticipates a transformed electoral landscape by the time the People’s Coalition Government approaches the next election.