Chaudhry asks PM where did the National Order of Precedence come from to nominate Ratu Naiqama

The Fiji Labour Party has questioned the 'conventional National Order of Precedence' which Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says he referred to when nominating Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu for President.

FLP Leader, Mahendra Chaudhry asks Rabuka where did this National Order of Precedence come from, where and when was it published and given official recognition.

He says as far as he knows, there never was any such Order so Rabuka must explain.

Chaudhry says if he can't, he must withdraw Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu's nomination and engage in wider consultation to identify a person of high repute acceptable to all the communities.

He says it is also significant that the next President will steer the national reconciliation process and will be making appointments of members to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Chaudhry adds that Ratu Naiqama's role in the takeover of the RFMF Sukanaivalu Barracks in Labasa after the 2000 coup and the terrorist events that followed disqualify him from being considered for nomination for the presidency.

He says Rabuka must consider seriously the repercussions of his hasty decision.

We are awaiting Rabuka’s response.