Unity Fiji Party (UFP) leader Savenaca Narube has called on eligible iTaukei voters to change the way they vote.

He said the indigenous Fijians “voted blindly and on popularity instead of credibility”.

Mr Narube made the statement after the UFP annual general meeting yesterday.

“They should vote for someone or party that reduces their poverty and addresses the cost of living.”

Mr Narube also revealed that a member of the ruling FijiFirst Party has applied to stand under his party banner in the 2022 General Election.

He did not give names.

Mr Narube said the party would be contesting for 55 seats in parliament.

“We have received more than 70 applications and we are going to start the screening process in a few weeks time,” he said.

“We hope to announce the first batch of provisional candidates by mid- May.

“We have three former politicians who have also applied and if you would include former ministers then it would be higher.”

Mr Narube said the party manifesto would be launched in May.

“We are getting ready for the campaign; we are getting our materials together and getting our candidates sorted out. Our message is clear that we need to get to the people,” he said.

“We hope we can work more smartly to lower our expenses by using social media and of course we want those that can help us financially.”

Mr Narube added that they are in talks with SODELPA and Fiji Labour Party to work together.

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