Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that he will run in the 2026 General Election. He made this declaration despite advocating for greater leadership opportunities for youth and women within his political party during a recent meeting in Lautoka. When asked about his intentions for the upcoming election, Mr. Rabuka firmly stated, “Yes, I will,” which also dispels rumors of a potential snap election that had circulated among party members.
His leadership has come under scrutiny following the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), especially since she is currently under investigation by the same agency. Concerns have been raised regarding her appointment, particularly as it coincided with the impending charges against Finance Minister Biman Prasad by FICAC. Although the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) is responsible for the commissioner’s appointment, observers have suggested that the Prime Minister should have intervened given the complications arising from the situation.
The case against Mr. Prasad is currently on hold while the newly appointed commissioner reviews it. Political leaders have urged Mr. Rabuka to conduct an inquiry into the commissioner’s appointment, suggesting it undermines the independence of the corruption agency. The Prime Minister has yet to issue a statement regarding these concerns.
Additionally, Ms. Malimali’s case has now been escalated to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and is under the investigation of the Criminal Investigations Department.
In related news, the Prime Minister has stated that the coalition government will soon decide on a nominee for the presidential position. While Mr. Rabuka previously suggested that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere is suitable for another term, this view faced opposition during a recent gathering of the People’s Alliance in Lautoka. Mr. Rabuka confirmed that a meeting will take place soon to discuss the presidential nominee, as Ratu Wiliame’s first term concludes this November.