The Social Democratic Liberal Party today discussed possibilities for their nomination for President of Fiji.

FBC News understands the party caucus has endorsed Ratu Epeli Ganilau who meets the qualifications for appointment to the Office of the President under the 2013 Constitution.

SODELPA President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu traditionally received nominations from senior members of the party.

The suggestions included the Tui Macuata – Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, and Ro Epeli Mataitini.

However, FBC News understands that discussions in the party caucus and consultations with a number of high chiefs have led to the endorsement of Ratu Epeli Ganilau of the Tovata confederacy who qualifies under section 83 of the constitution.

SODELPA leader Ro Teimumu Kepa was scheduled to announce the nomination this afternoon.

However, when FBC News arrived at the office in Parliament, we were told we weren’t allowed in despite being informed earlier by the Opposition Whip Ratu Isoa Tikoca about the press conference.

FBC approached SODELA’s General Secretary Pio Tabauwalu whose only comment was, that he could not comment on behalf of the party leader.

This despite a statement by SODELPA emailed this afternoon, clarifying, that in order to protect the Party’s integrity and to ensure general ethics of professionalism is maintained, the SODELPA Management Board has decided that effective immediately, media statements made on behalf of the Party will only be made by the Party President, Party Leader and the General Secretary.

Parliament will hold a special sitting next Monday to elect the new President.

The term of outgoing President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau who has been President of Fiji since 2009 comes to an end next month.