A rift within the People’s Alliance Party surfaced during its general assembly in Lautoka yesterday, as members expressed concerns regarding the party’s position on the nomination of Fiji’s next President. Supporters at Hotel 2000 inquired whether a candidate had been proposed, particularly with the current President’s term nearing its conclusion.
Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, who was appointed by the FijiFirst government on October 22, 2021, took his oath of office a month later. The 2013 Constitution outlines that Fiji’s President is elected by Parliament for a three-year term, leading to speculation about potential successors.
Party leader and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that an official motion to nominate a candidate was not presented at the assembly. He disclosed that in the wake of the 2022 elections, various factions sought to assert influence over both the President and the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF). However, both individuals remained steadfast in their positions against such pressures.
“We talked about who should occupy the presidency and who would be the party’s nominee,” Mr. Rabuka noted. He added that the current President was informed of these discussions, especially as social media and internal conflicts could amplify the situation.
Mr. Rabuka cautioned against nominating an alternative candidate, emphasizing that no Fijian President has ever served just one term. “In respect of the previous government that appointed Tui Macuata, we should grant him another term. He has performed admirably, acted within the Constitution, and deserves our respect,” the party leader remarked.
Only a small number of PA ministers attended the meeting, including Mr. Rabuka, Manoa Kamikamica, Vatimi Rayalu, Sakiasi Tubuna, Esrom Immanuel, and Jese Saukuru.