Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to run in the upcoming 2026 General Election. He made this clarification despite advocating for increased youth and women leadership within his political party during a recent meeting in Lautoka. When asked about his plans for the polls, Mr. Rabuka stated decisively, “Yes, I will.” His announcement dismisses recent rumors circulating in party circles regarding a potential snap election.
Amid ongoing scrutiny surrounding his administration, Mr. Rabuka’s leadership has been challenged by the recent appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), particularly as she is currently under investigation by the very agency she now leads. Critics have raised concerns regarding her appointment, especially since it coincides with the anticipated charges against Minister for Finance Biman Prasad by FICAC.
Although the FICAC commissioner is appointed by the Judicial Services Commission (JSC), there are calls for the Prime Minister to intervene given the tumultuous situation. The case against Mr. Prasad has been suspended pending a review by the newly appointed commissioner. Political leaders have urged Mr. Rabuka to launch an inquiry into the appointment, labeling it an infringement on the independence of the corruption watchdog.
As for Ms. Malimali, her situation has been escalated to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and is currently under investigation by the Criminal Investigations Department.
In other news, the Prime Minister recently stated that the coalition Government will soon select a nominee for the presidential position. Mr. Rabuka previously suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere may be suitable for another term; however, this view was contested during the People’s Alliance assembly in Lautoka two weeks ago. In a recent interview, the Prime Minister confirmed that discussions regarding a nominee would take place shortly, as Ratu Wiliame’s current term concludes this November.