Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to run in the 2026 General Election. This declaration comes despite his recent advocacy for increased representation of youth and women within his political party during a meeting in Lautoka. When questioned about his future electoral plans, Mr. Rabuka confidently replied, “Yes, I will.”
His announcement also dispels recent rumors circulating within party circles regarding a potential snap election. Rabuka’s leadership has faced scrutiny, particularly following the controversial appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner, especially as she herself is currently under investigation by the agency.
Malimali’s appointment has raised concerns, particularly since it occurred at a time when Minister for Finance Biman Prasad was expected to be charged by FICAC. Although the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) is responsible for appointing the FICAC commissioner, there are calls for the Prime Minister, as the head of Government, to intervene given the complexities surrounding the situation.
The investigation concerning Mr. Prasad has been paused pending a review by the newly appointed commissioner. Political leaders have urged the Prime Minister to step in and initiate a board of inquiry into the appointment, which they argue undermines the independence of the corruption agency. The Prime Minister has not yet provided updates regarding the ongoing situation.
In related news, Prime Minister Rabuka indicated that the coalition Government will soon select a nominee for the presidential position. While Rabuka previously suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere could serve another term, this idea faced opposition during a recent assembly of the People’s Alliance in Lautoka. In a recent interview, he confirmed that the Government would convene shortly to discuss potential nominees, as Ratu Wiliame’s first term is set to conclude this November.