Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to run in the 2026 General Election. This declaration comes despite his recent advocacy for increased youth and female representation within his political party during a meeting in Lautoka. When questioned about his potential candidacy in 2026, he responded affirmatively, stating, “Yes, I will.”
Rabuka’s announcement also dispels recent rumors regarding a possible snap election circulating within party circles. The Prime Minister’s leadership has been under scrutiny lately, particularly following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), despite her being the subject of an ongoing investigation by the same agency.
Malimali’s appointment raised eyebrows as it coincided with Finance Minister Biman Prasad being on the verge of facing charges from FICAC. Although the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) is responsible for appointing the FICAC commissioner, many expect the Prime Minister, as the head of government, to intervene in this controversial situation.
Currently, Prasad’s case is on hold while the new commissioner conducts a review. Political party leaders have urged Rabuka to step in and launch an inquiry into the appointment, which they claim undermines the independence of the corruption watchdog. The Prime Minister has yet to comment on this issue.
Furthermore, Malimali’s case has been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and is now with the Criminal Investigations Department.
In related news, Rabuka confirmed that the coalition government would soon select a nominee for the presidential position. Although he previously indicated support for President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere’s re-election, this was met with opposition from the People’s Alliance during a recent assembly in Lautoka. Rabuka stated that the government would convene shortly to discuss the presidential nomination as Ratu Wiliame’s first term concludes this November.