Election of the country’s President deferred to a later sitting in Parliament

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

Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu announced this morning that this will be communicated in due course.

The Speaker went on to say that there were so many rumblings going on, and he did not understand.

Also on an OHS matter, Ratu Naiqama said he has been advised that the planned water cut for the Suva to Nausori areas will commence from midnight tonight.

He says the Parliamentary Complex will also be affected, and whilst there will be a standby water truck in Parliament, this will not be enough to ensure full hygiene standards for the Parliamentary Complex.

It was agreed that the only urgent matter that is at hand is from the Prime Minister to table a bill in parliament.

Parliament agreed to stand down tomorrow's parliamentary proceedings, but bring forward the Prime Minister's bill today.

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.