Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to run in the 2026 General Election. This confirmation comes despite his recent advocacy for increased youth and women leadership within his political party during a meeting held in Lautoka.
When questioned about his plans for the upcoming election, Mr. Rabuka responded with a definitive, “Yes, I will.” His statement has also dispelled rumors of a potential snap election that had been circulating within party circles.
Mr. Rabuka’s leadership has faced scrutiny following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner, even as she is under investigation by the same agency. Her appointment has raised questions since it coincided with the anticipated charges against Finance Minister Biman Prasad by FICAC. While the Judicial Services Commission is responsible for appointing the FICAC commissioner, many expected the Prime Minister, as the head of the government, to address the complexities emerging from this situation. Minister Prasad’s case remains on hold, pending a review by the newly appointed commissioner.
Political leaders have urged the Prime Minister to intervene and initiate an inquiry regarding the appointment, claiming it undermines the independence of the corruption watchdog. As of now, Mr. Rabuka has not provided any updates on the matter. Additionally, Ms. Malimali’s situation has been escalated to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution and is currently under examination by the Criminal Investigations Department.
In other developments, the Prime Minister confirmed that the coalition government would soon decide on a nominee for the presidential position. Although Mr. Rabuka previously suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere might be suitable for re-election, this opinion faced opposition during a recent assembly of the People’s Alliance in Lautoka. In a recent interview, Mr. Rabuka indicated that government officials would convene shortly to discuss the nominee for the presidency, as Ratu Wiliame’s first term concludes this November.