Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to run in the 2026 General Election. He made this declaration during a recent party meeting in Lautoka, where he emphasized the importance of increasing youth and women’s representation within his political party.
When questioned about his plans for the upcoming election, Mr. Rabuka responded confidently, stating, “Yes, I will.” This affirmation also dispels recent rumors circulating within party circles about the possibility of a snap election.
Mr. Rabuka has recently faced scrutiny following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), while she is currently under investigation by the body herself. Critics have raised concerns about her appointment coinciding with a time when Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, is expected to face charges from FICAC.
Although the Judicial Services Commission appoints the FICAC Commissioner, there were expectations that the Prime Minister, as the head of the Government, would intervene amid the unfolding situation. Consequently, Mr. Prasad’s case has been suspended pending a review by the new commissioner.
Political party leaders have urged the Prime Minister to step in and conduct an inquiry regarding the appointment, claiming it compromises the integrity of the corruption watchdog. Nevertheless, there has been no update from Mr. Rabuka on this issue.
Additionally, Ms. Malimali’s case has been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution and is now under investigation by the Criminal Investigations Department.
In other news, the Prime Minister noted that the coalition Government will soon decide on a nominee for the presidential position. He had previously implied that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere was suitable for another term, but this view faced opposition during the People’s Alliance assembly in Lautoka two weeks ago. Mr. Rabuka confirmed that discussions on the nominee will take place shortly, as Ratu Wiliame’s first term concludes this November.