Parliament

Uncertainty fogs Opposition leadership

February 16, 2023 12:30 pm

Opposition Leader Voreqe  Bainimarama

The decision on whether Opposition Leader Voreqe Bainimarama will remain as a Member of Parliament hangs in the balance.

Today, outside Parliament, senior members of the party opted not to comment about who will lead the party in Parliament should Bainimarama lose his seat in Parliament through a suspension.

Inia Seruiratu, a former Minister and Leader in the previous government in Parliament says the party has not yet decided.

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“Thank you for the question, I have no comments.”

Former Minister for Commerce, Trade, Tourism, and Transport Faiyaz Koya says there is no reason for the party to have this discussion of appointing a new Opposition Leader.

“It’s a bit presumptuous, there is nothing.”

Another senior member and former Minister Jone Usamate opted not to comment on this issue.

New FijiFirst MP and former Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Viliame Naupoto says the decision rests with the party.

“Not yet, they haven’t. We will wait and see.”

Former Police Chief Ioane Naivaluarua’s name has been noted as a potential leader for the Opposition Party.

Meanwhile, Parliament Privileges Committee chair Lenora Qereqeretabua says the committee will elaborate again on the formal complaint against Bainimarama this afternoon.

“We are working on precedence as well, there have been four privilege committee decisions over the past few years so we are working on that as guidance as well but I will be able to tell you more later today.”

The Speaker ruled yesterday that Bainimarama breached the Standing Orders when he delivered his maiden speech on Monday.

Bainimarama stated that President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere has failed the Fijian people and will be remembered as the person who aided and abetted the most incompetent and divisive government.