Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to run in the 2026 General Election. This confirmation comes even as he champions the increased participation of youth and women in leadership roles within his political party, as discussed during a recent meeting in Lautoka.
When asked about his plans for the upcoming election, Rabuka stated decisively, “Yes, I will.” His announcement has also dispelled recent rumors surrounding a possible snap election circulating within party circles.
Rabuka’s political standing has recently come under scrutiny following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), while she herself is currently under investigation by the agency. The timing of her appointment has raised eyebrows, especially as it coincides with the charges expected against Minister of Finance, Biman Prasad, by FICAC.
Although the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) is responsible for the FICAC commissioner’s appointment, there is public expectation for the Prime Minister, as the head of government, to address concerns regarding the situation. The case against Prasad has been paused, awaiting a review from the newly appointed commissioner.
Political leaders have urged Rabuka to intervene and launch an inquiry into Malimali’s appointment, suggesting it undermines the independence of the corruption watchdog. As of now, the Prime Minister has not provided an update on the matter. Nonetheless, Malimali’s case has been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and is currently under investigation by the Criminal Investigations Department.
In addition, Rabuka has indicated that the coalition government will soon decide on a nominee for the presidential position. Previously, he suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere was suitable for another term, although this view faced opposition during a recent assembly of the People’s Alliance in Lautoka. Rabuka confirmed that discussions regarding the nomination would take place shortly, as Katonivere’s first term concludes this November.