Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has withdrawn his nomination for the position of President of the Republic of Fiji, citing “some discomfort” regarding nominees brought to his attention by the Speaker earlier today.
While Rabuka did not disclose the specific nominee, he highlighted the need for transparency in the nomination process.
“In fairness to both, we could not make the nomination while there was a cloud over our nominees,” Rabuka stated during a press conference following the deferral of the nomination hearing, originally scheduled for today. The hearing’s postponement was partly due to scheduled maintenance work by the Water Authority of Fiji, set to begin at midnight.
The matter may be addressed in the November session of Parliament, scheduled for November 18-22. However, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, who has served as president since November 12, 2021, is set to see his initial three-year term expire on the same date this year, leaving uncertainty regarding the transition.
Iowane Naivalurua, leader of the nine-member Opposition bloc, stated that they would support the government on issues of national interest, despite not being informed of the nominees. “This is politics at play. I understand that some names are being floated around, but I am unaware of them,” he added.
Bloc 16 Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu also chose not to disclose their nominee. Among those reportedly under consideration are the current President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci, and Vunivalu of Nukunitabua Ratu Naulu Mataitini.
Ratu Wiliame is a potential candidate for reappointment, which would make him the second Fijian president to serve two consecutive terms, following Major-General (Ret’d) Jioji Konrote.
The 2013 Constitution governs Fiji’s nomination process, specifically Sections 84 and 85. When a vacancy arises, the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition each nominate a candidate, with Parliament voting to confirm the nominee. In the event of a tie, further votes are conducted until a majority is reached. However, if both the opposition and the government nominate the same individual, no vote is held.
Previous Fijian presidents include:
- Major-General (Ret’d) Jioji Konusi Konrote (2015–2021)
- Ratu Epeli Nailatikau (2009–2015)
- Ratu Josefa Iloilo (2000–2009)
- Ratu Kamisese Mara (1993–2000)
- Ratu Penaia Ganilau (1987–1993)
