North chiefs dominated nominations
“The 2013 Constitution allows the Leader of Opposition to come up with an alternative, we are an alternative government and it’s always good to come up with alternatives,” Mr Seruiratu said.
Saturday 02 November 2024 | 09:26
Speaker of Parliament Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu and Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere.
The two paramount chiefs of the Northern Division, Tui Macuata and President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere and the Tui Cakau, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu were part of the Opposition’s presidency nomination.
The Leader of Opposition Inia Seruiratu told this masthead the caucus went through a ‘long list’ and thorough deliberation on who should be their presidential nominee.
Their nominee Ratu Meli Tora received 16 votes from Members of Parliament while the Government’s nominee Ratu Naiqama secured a landslide victory of 37 votes.
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“The 2013 Constitution allows the Leader of Opposition to come up with an alternative, we are an alternative government and it’s always good to come up with alternatives,” Mr Seruiratu said.
“We went through a long list, we had Ratu Naiqama, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere plus a few others.
“In the end, after the deliberation within the caucus, we came to a consensus that Ratu Meli was to be our nomination.”
Ratu Naiqama continues to serve as Speaker of Parliament until he is constitutionally sworn-in on November 11.
A new Speaker to Parliament is expected to be appointed on December 2.
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