SODELPA split into two

SODELPA's support is split into two with some supporting the Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka to continue as the Party Leader while some have shown their support for newly appointed leader Aseri Radrodro.

Hundreds of supporters turned up for the SODELPA AGM currently underway at the Suva Civic Centre.

Some were stopped at the entry as they have not registered and did not pay the $2 registration fees.

SODELPA Ba West Conference President Seremaia Tuiteci says the Ba West Conference sent in their resolution on Thursday in support of Gavoka.

He says it is in the Party's Constitution that if the party does not win the election, the Party Leader will have to relinquish his or her position and that is what happened to Na Marama Bale Na Roko Tui Dreketi Ro Teimumu Kepa and Sitiveni Rabuka.

Tuiteci says the management board wanted to do this to Gavoka but he had raised his concern during their management board meeting in February for them to seek legal advice as SODELPA is part of Government today.

He also told the media outside Suva Civic Centre after speaking at the AGM that he called for transparency and accountability from the management board.

He says the Qaranivalu Ratu Inoke Takiveikata in his speech had called for SODELPA to support the government of the day and this should be a reminder to all of them.

Party Leader Aseri Radrodro, Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka, I-Taukei Affairs Minister Ifereimi Vasu, and SODELPA members from around the country are attending the meeting.