The government’s nomination for Head of State and President of the Republic of Fiji is Na Turaga na Tui Cakau, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu.

This comes after the current President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere has formally withdrawn his name from the Prime Minister’s nomination as President.

In a statement released by the government at midnight, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka stated that he had consulted the Parliamentary Caucus of the People’s Alliance, and the name of the Speaker, Ratu Naiqama, has been formally endorsed by the Caucus for nomination to the Presidency.

Rabuka adds that Turaga na Tui Cakau has formally consented to be nominated for the Presidency.

He says that as the Prime Minister, he will move Ratu Naiqama’s name under section 84(2) of the Constitution at the special sitting of Parliament next Thursday.

Rabuka adds that Turaga na Tui Cakau has formally consented to be nominated for the Presidency.

He says that as the Prime Minister, he will move Ratu Naiqama’s name under section 84(2) of the Constitution at the special sitting of Parliament next Thursday.

Rabuka says that on 17 October 2024, he wrote to President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere seeking his approval and consent to be nominated for a second term as President and Head of State under section 84(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji.

He adds that on Monday 21st October 2024, he received formal communication from Ratu Wiliame, wherein he withdrew his name from nomination for a second term.

The Prime Minister paid tribute to Ratu Wiliame and acknowledged his service to the nation as our President.

He says Ratu Wiliame has conducted his duties as Head of State with integrity and forbearance and his steady hand at the Presidency ensured a smooth transition in Government following the December 2022 general election.

A formal vakasenuqanuqa ceremony will be conducted to express the nation’s gratitude to Ratu Wiliame in accordance with traditional protocol, at the end of his term.

The Prime Minister has called on all Fijians to join him and the Coalition Government in their work to unite the nation, and promote social cohesion, peace, unity, stability, and prosperity.