Three women are in the list of likely contenders for President, succeeding Ratu Epeli Nailatikau.

Expected to be in the running for contender when a decision is made next month are:

– Dr Jiko Luveni – Speaker to Parliament;

– Nazhat Shameem – Permanent Representative of Fiji to United Nations Office in Geneva. She is highly qualified and has extensive legal background.

– Adi Koila Nailatikau – wife of current President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau.  There is a possibility  that the Leader of the Opposition will nominate Adi Koila. She is a lawyer.  She was the Minister for Tourism in the Chaudhry government. She is currently the chair of the Yatu Lau Company Limited.

– Ro Epeli Mataitini – He is the Vunivalu of  Rewa. A former civil servant and is well known for his quiet dignity. He supports Government developments in the province. He is also a member of the Rewa Provincial Council meeting. Strong supporter of Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimamarama and the FijiFirst Government.

– Ratu Tua’akitau Cokanauto – He is the younger brother of President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau.  A former minister in the Laisenia Qarase Government and former president of the Senate. He was the youngest member of the Great Council of Chiefs. A former national 15’s manager. He works in the private sector.  He  is said to have no political baggage.

– Ioane Naivalurua – Fiji’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China. Mr Naivalurua served as Commissoners of Police and Corrections after a distinguished military career.

The Constitution says  “The person who receives the support of the majority of the members of Parliament present shall be appointed as the President, and the Speaker shall publicly announce the name of the President.”

It will be the Prime Minister’s nominee who  will be unanimously endorsed as the new President.

Feedback:  maikab@fijisun.com.fj