Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to run in the 2026 General Election, confirming his candidacy despite advocating for increased representation of youth and women in his political party during a recent meeting in Lautoka. When questioned about his plans for the upcoming polls, Mr. Rabuka responded affirmatively, stating, “Yes, I will.”
His announcement dispels recent rumors within party circles regarding a potential snap election. The Prime Minister’s role has garnered attention following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), particularly as she is currently under investigation by the commission herself.
Malimali’s appointment has raised concerns, as it coincided with the time when the Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, was expected to face charges from FICAC. While the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) is responsible for appointing the FICAC commissioner, there are expectations that the Prime Minister would intervene amidst the unfolding issues.
Prasad’s case has been suspended pending a review by the new commissioner, prompting calls from political leaders for Mr. Rabuka to address the situation and investigate the appointment, which they claim undermines the independence of the corruption watchdog. The Prime Minister has yet to provide further details on this matter. Regardless, Malimali’s case has been referred to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution and is now being handled by the Criminal Investigations Department.
In other news, Prime Minister Rabuka indicated that the coalition Government will soon decide on a nominee for the presidency. He had previously hinted that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere was suitable for a second presidential term, but this met with opposition during a recent assembly of the People’s Alliance in Lautoka. In an interview, Mr. Rabuka confirmed that the Government would convene to discuss the nomination, with Ratu Wiliame’s first term concluding this November.