The Tui Nadi, Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci, has strongly denied reports suggesting that he and the Tui Nawaka, Ratu Joeli Bulu, are leaving Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s People’s Alliance Party (PAP) to join the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA).
These claims, made by Seremaia Tuiteci, President of the SODELPA Ba/West/Yasawa Constituency, were reported by certain media outlets this week amid ongoing speculation in the lead-up to Fiji’s next general election, with shifting alliances and rumours circulating in the public arena.
In a statement issued today, Ratu Navuniuci categorically dismissed the allegations, calling them “entirely false and misleading.” He said that neither he nor Tui Nawaka Ratu Joeli Bulu had expressed any intention to switch political allegiances.
“At no point have I, nor the Tui Nawaka, expressed any intention or desire to leave our current political affiliations or join SODELPA,” Ratu Navuniuci said. “These claims are baseless fabrications that misrepresent my position.”
Ratu Navuniuci accused Tuiteci of fabricating the story for personal gain, adding that the SODELPA representative’s remarks aimed to manipulate public perception of his political stance. He further demanded a public apology from Tuiteci for spreading what he called “lies” and attempting to create divisions within the community.
“As a traditional leader, I am committed to my people, and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s leadership remains steadfast,” he stated. “I urge all media outlets and the public to disregard these false claims and ensure the truth is respected.”
Ratu Navuniuci called for accountability from all parties involved, saying, “I expect the same level of respect and accountability from others, including Mr. Tuiteci.”
