Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced Speaker of Parliament and paramount chief of Cakaudrove confederacy Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu as his nominee for the next President of Fiji after the incumbent, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, withdrew from the race for a second term.
“On 17 October 2024, I wrote to the President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere seeking his approval and consent to be nominated for a second term as President and Head of State under section 84(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji.
“On Monday 21 October 2024, I received formal communication from the President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, wherein he withdrew his name from nomination for a second term,” Rabuka said in a statement.
“I want to pay tribute to the President Na Gone Turaga Bale na Tui Macuata Ratu Wiliame Katonivere and acknowledge his service to the nation as our President.
“His Excellency has conducted his duties as Head of State with integrity and forbearance. His steady hand at the Presidency ensured a smooth transition in Government following the December 2022 general election. He was diligent in ensuring respect for the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji despite those who sought to sway his resolve in upholding the law.
“His term in office has been marked by unprecedented freedom for the people of Fiji and he has symbolised the unity and integrity of the State at home and abroad. During his term, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere opened State House to all Fijians, and undertook important diplomatic missions with decorum and poise.
“A formal vakasenuqanuqa ceremony will be conducted to express the nation’s gratitude to Ratu Wiliame Katonivere in accordance with traditional protocol, at the end of his term,” said Rabuka in a statement.
Katonivere’s withdrawal paves the way for Ratu Naiqama, Speaker of Parliament and Tui Cakau, to take the mantle.
Rabuka confirmed that his parliamentary caucus had unanimously endorsed Ratu Naiqama’s candidacy, which will be tabled for approval on 31 October.
“The Turaga na Tui Cakau has formally consented to being nominated for the Presidency,” he said.
“As Prime Minister I will move his name under section 84(2) of the Constitution at the special sitting of Parliament on Thursday 31st October 2024.
The prime minister urged Fijians to rally behind the new leadership. “I call on all Fijians to join me and the Coalition Government in our work to unite the nation, promote social cohesion, peace, unity, stability and prosperity,” he said.