PM withdrew nominee for President as Speaker highlighted there was some discomfort on some of the nominees

There was some discomfort on some of the nominees for the country’s President, and that is why Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka withdrew his nominee for the election of the President this morning.

Rabuka confirms that the issue of the discomfort on some of the nominees was brought to his attention by the Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu before the sitting so the Prime Minister asked if he could withdraw the nomination.

He says he believes the Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu also would have had a nominee however they could not make the nomination when there was a cloud over the nominees.

The nomination, election and appointment of the country’s President has been deferred to a later sitting in Parliament.

President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere was tipped to be re-elected as the country's President for his final 3 year term.

The Sitiveni Rabuka led coalition government was expected to nominate Ratu Wiliame for his second term in office when nominations were to be called in Parliament this morning.

Under the 2013 Constitution, the President can only serve two terms in office.

Ratu Wiliame was elected as President in 2021 after being nominated by former Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama.

Rabuka had earlier indicated to fijivillage News that his proposal to the People’s Alliance Party was for Ratu Wiliame to have another term. Opposition Leader, Inia Seruiratu has not responded to our question when asked on who will the Opposition nominate as President.

If the Opposition agrees with the Prime Minister's nominee, then Ratu Wiliame will be elected unopposed.