Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to run in the 2026 General Election. Despite advocating for greater leadership roles for youth and women within his political party during a recent gathering in Lautoka, Mr. Rabuka confirmed, “Yes, I will” when asked about contesting the upcoming polls. His declaration dispels ongoing rumors regarding a potential snap election circulating in political circles.
Mr. Rabuka’s leadership has come under scrutiny following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), especially as she herself is under investigation by the agency. Critics have raised concerns about her appointment coinciding with the pending charges against Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, by FICAC. While the Judicial Services Commission oversees the appointment of the FICAC Commissioner, many anticipated that the Prime Minister would take action as the situation developed.
Currently, Mr. Prasad’s case is on hold as it awaits review from the new commissioner. Political leaders have urged the Prime Minister to step in and conduct an inquiry into the appointment, deeming it an infringement on the independence of the corruption watchdog. The Prime Minister has not yet provided updates on this matter. In the meantime, Ms. Malimali’s case has been referred to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution and is now pending with the Criminal Investigations Department.
In related news, Prime Minister Rabuka indicated that the coalition Government will soon decide on a nominee for the presidential position. Although he earlier suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere was suitable for another term, this was met with opposition during the People’s Alliance gathering in Lautoka two weeks ago. Mr. Rabuka confirmed that the Government would meet soon to discuss the presidential nomination, as Ratu Wiliame’s first term concludes this November.