Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed his willingness to lead the People’s Alliance Party (PAP) once again in the upcoming 2026 General Election, contingent upon the party’s decision. During his remarks, Rabuka stated, “I will be available. It depends on the party; if they want me to stand, I will.”

Rabuka played a pivotal role in founding the PAP in 2021 and was instrumental in the party’s success in the narrow victory during the general election held in December the subsequent year. He indicated that if the party chooses not to nominate him, he is open to stepping aside, having already contributed significantly over the past three years. “I have done everything for the party… But I will not desert the party,” he emphasized, indicating his dedication to the organization’s future.

He acknowledged the challenges facing a potential new leader, citing the existing voter base and the substantial support he received in the last election, where he garnered the highest number of votes for PAP—77,748. Member of Parliament Lynda Tabuya received 11,965 votes, while Charan Jeath Singh, the Minister for Sugar Industry, secured 5,616 votes.

Mr. Rabuka noted the changing public sentiment towards the coalition, which has shifted from optimism to a growing concern about its effectiveness. This can serve as a critical moment for the coalition to reassess its strategies and realign its goals to better resonate with the electorate.

Overall, the future of the PAP and its leadership will ultimately rest in the hands of its members and constituents. There exists an opportunity for renewed direction and leadership that could reshape the landscape in the lead-up to the 2026 elections, creating a space for hope amid existing challenges.