Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to participate in the 2026 General Election. This confirmation comes despite his ongoing advocacy for increased youth and women leadership within his political party during a recent meeting in Lautoka. When questioned about his electoral aspirations for 2026, Mr. Rabuka firmly responded, “Yes, I will.”
His announcement addresses circulating rumors about a potential snap election within party circles. Mr. Rabuka’s leadership has faced scrutiny following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), amid an ongoing investigation involving her. Ms. Malimali’s appointment is controversial as it occurred while Finance Minister Biman Prasad is contending with charges expected from FICAC.
Although the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) is responsible for appointing the FICAC commissioner, many anticipated that Mr. Rabuka, as the head of government, would intervene in light of the unfolding situation. The case concerning Mr. Prasad has been suspended pending a review by the newly appointed commissioner. Political leaders have urged the Prime Minister to investigate the appointment, alleging it undermines the integrity of the corruption agency.
Currently, there has been no update from the Prime Minister regarding the matter. Additionally, Ms. Malimali’s case has been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution and is under the Criminal Investigations Department.
In a separate matter, the Prime Minister has indicated that the coalition government will soon decide on a nominee for the presidential position. While Mr. Rabuka previously suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere could be suitable for re-election, this notion was met with opposition during the People’s Alliance gathering in Lautoka two weeks ago. In an interview, Mr. Rabuka confirmed that discussions about a nominee would take place shortly, as Ratu Wiliame’s first term concludes this November.