President to step down from office today

President Ratu Josefa Iloilo will step down from his office today, after 9 years in office however a state farewell is now being organised for the Tui Vuda.

Permanent Secretary at the Prime Minister’s Office, Lt Colonel Pio Tikoduadua said they are still finalising the number of days owed to President Ratu Josefa Iloilo in outstanding leave which will be put together in a submission for the Prime Minister.

He adds once the details are finalized, then they would be able to confirm the date when Ratu Iloilo officially steps down as President.

Tikoduadua said a committee has been set up to organise the farewell arrangements, which will be headed by the Permanent Secretary for Indigenous Affairs, Ratu Meli Bainimarama.

He adds Ratu Iloilo will be accorded a full state farewell.

Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama had stressed that Fiji's next President will be chosen by the cabinet and appointed by Chief Justice, Anthony Gates.

The Vice President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau will be Fiji's Acting President for the time being.