A retired head teacher, Rajendra Prasad Sharma, originally from Vunimoli, Labasa is standing as an independent candidate for the 2022 General Election.

The 57-year-old father of three children now residing in Rakiraki is confident to meet the threshold.

The fifth eldest of eight siblings said he applied for a ticket to all the parties and since there was no confirmation. So he decided to stand alone.

“In my 34 years of service, I taught in 15 primary schools and I am confident that most of my votes will come from my former students, their parents and the 15 villages that I have served,” Mr Sharma said.

“I have done my homework as a candidate visiting houses and letting them know what my intention is to join politics.”

He is confident of getting votes from New Zealand and Australia as well. He retired this year in April as the head teacher of Waimairi Primary School in Rakiraki.

He said his late father, Pundit Vishwa Nath was approached by late Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara to join him in politics.

“My father refused saying that he can’t afford to join since he may not be able to fulfil all promises since he was a pundit ,” he said.

“I used to see how they held discussions and always wanted to contribute but couldn’t.”

He said now he wanted to use this opportunity to bring new changes as his target was all age groups.

“My mother, Audh Raji, 92, has given me her blessings and advised me to work on three principles when elected,” he said.

“That is never tell lies, don’t betray your people and nation.”

Feedback: shratikan@fijisun.com.fj