Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced his intention to run in the 2026 General Election. This declaration comes despite his recent emphasis on increasing youth and women’s leadership within his political party during a meeting held in Lautoka. When questioned about his plans for the upcoming polls, Rabuka confidently responded, “Yes, I will.”
His statement puts to rest rumors of a potential snap election circulating within party members. Recently, Rabuka has faced scrutiny due to the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), particularly as she is currently under investigation by the commission herself.
Malimali’s appointment has raised concerns, especially as it occurred when Finance Minister Biman Prasad was expected to be charged by FICAC. While the appointment of the FICAC commissioner falls under the jurisdiction of the Judicial Services Commission, many anticipated that the Prime Minister would take action to address the situation as it unfolded.
Currently, Prasad’s case is on hold pending a review by the new commissioner, and political leaders have urged the Prime Minister to conduct an inquiry into Malimali’s appointment, arguing it undermines the integrity of the corruption watchdog. Rabuka has not yet offered any updates regarding this issue. Meanwhile, Malimali’s case has been referred to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution and is now being handled by the Criminal Investigations Department.
In related news, Prime Minister Rabuka stated that the coalition government will soon decide on a nominee for the presidential position. He previously suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere would be suitable for another term; however, this suggestion faced opposition during the People’s Alliance assembly in Lautoka two weeks ago. In an interview, Rabuka confirmed that discussions regarding the presidential nominee would take place soon, noting that Ratu Wiliame’s current term concludes in November.