The SODELPA caucus meeting has ended this afternoon with no decision on the resignation of now-former Leader of Opposition Sitiveni Rabuka.

Following the short meeting in the Opposition Chambers, the elected SODELPA MPs emerged with little development.

Opposition Whip Lynda Tabuya says there are processes to be followed and the first of these is the acceptance of Rabuka’s resignation by Speaker of the House Ratu Epeli Nailatikau.

[Opposition Whip Lynda Tabuya]

“As it stands right now we are awaiting the confirmation from the Electoral Commission as well as the Speaker of Parliament as far as the seat for Rabuka is concerned. So we have not taken a vote today. We have not even discussed the possible names.”

Tabuya adds the caucus has not put forward any names for the position of Opposition Leader, and will not do so until such time as Rabuka’s resignation is confirmed.

The Speaker will then have to inform the Electoral Commission of the vacancy in parliament in order for the Commission to confirm the next SODELPA candidate from the 2018 General Election who now qualifies to become a Member of Parliament.

Tabuya adds names for the Opposition Leader circulating on social media are mere speculation.

According to the list of candidates for SODELPA, Tanya Waqanika now qualifies as a Member of Parliament.