Filimoni Jitoko is Parliament Speaker

Retired judge Filimoni Jitoko is the new Speaker of Parliament.

He was nominated by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka while Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu nominated former Deputy Speaker Ruveni Nadalo for the position of Speaker of Parliament.

Parliament voted by a roll call.

Jitoko got 34 votes while Nadalo got 15.

All MPs and the Opposition Group of 9 led by Ioane Naivalurua voted for Jitoko.

Jitoko replaces President-elect and Tui Cakau Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says Jitoko will bring strategic thinking in the office of the Speaker and ensure that Parliament will use rules that are user friendly.

He says Jitoko is the best.