Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to participate in the 2026 General Election. This announcement comes despite his recent advocacy for increased youth and women leadership within his political party during a meeting in Lautoka. When questioned about his plans for the upcoming polls, Mr. Rabuka responded affirmatively, stating, “Yes, I will.”
This declaration has also dispelled rumors of a potential snap election that circulated among party members recently. Mr. Rabuka’s leadership has drawn scrutiny following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), especially as she is currently under investigation by the agency.
The timing of Ms. Malimali’s appointment has raised concerns, particularly as it coincides with Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, being on the verge of charges from FICAC. While the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) is responsible for appointing the FICAC commissioner, there are expectations that the Prime Minister should intervene when controversies arise.
Mr. Prasad’s case has been paused for review by the new commissioner. Political leaders have urged the Prime Minister to conduct an inquiry into the appointment, claiming it undermines the independence of the corruption watchdog. The Prime Minister has not yet commented on these calls.
Additionally, Ms. Malimali’s case has been transferred to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution and is now with the Criminal Investigations Department.
In other news, the Prime Minister has indicated that the coalition Government will soon select a nominee for the presidential position. Mr. Rabuka previously suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere is suitable for another term; however, this opinion was challenged during a recent People’s Alliance meeting in Lautoka. Mr. Rabuka confirmed that the Government will convene shortly to discuss the presidential nomination, with Ratu Wiliame’s first term concluding in November.