PM acknowledges support from coalition partners in backing his President nomination

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka acknowledges the support from his two coalition partners in backing his nomination for President.

@fijivillage.com PM acknowledges support from coalition partners in backing his President nomination #fiji #fyp ♬ original sound - fijivillage

Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu is the new President of Fiji after getting 37 votes in parliament.

Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu had nominated the Chair of the Ba Provincial Council, Ratu Meli Tora Tavaiqia to be the next Head of State. He got 16 votes.

Before Parliament sat to elect the country’s new President, the National Federation Party, SODELPA and the Opposition Group of 9 had confirmed they stand firm in supporting the nomination of current Speaker of Parliament Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu as the new President.

Speaking to the media after Turaga Na Tui Cakau Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu was elected as President in Parliament today, Rabuka says Parliament is also an electoral college, and they carry the mandate of the people by appointing the President.

Meanwhile, SODELPA General Secretary, Viliame Takayawa says they had agreed late last night to support Ratu Naiqama to be the next President as according to them, it remains the Tovata confederacy’s turn to take up the presidency.

When asked by fijivillage News, NFP Leader and Deputy Prime Minister, Professor Biman Prasad said they have had a good discussion with Rabuka about the nomination and both parties have agreed to the nomination of Ratu Naiqama.