North chiefs support Tui Cakau for President

Chiefs in the North have thrown their support behind their paramount chief, the Tui Cakau, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, as the next Fiji President.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka confirmed that Ratu Naiqama was Government’s nominee.

Tui Nadogo, Ratu Ilisaniti Malodali, said he supported the Government’s nominee, but believed the chiefs must be involved in a say as well.

Ratu Malodali said they respected Government’s decision and understood the constitutional powers they had.

He believed appointments should be done with a voice from the Great Council of Chiefs to ensure the iTaukei (custodians of the land) were represented.

Tui Wailevu, Ratu Joseva Maivalili, said he supported a person for the presidential position that held justice and righteousness to take this power of authority. When approached on whether he supported Government’s nominee, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, for the presidential role, he remained neutral.

Ratu Maivalili said the nation needed a person who could unite all districts and provinces in Fiji

He said the common people need a leader that showed equality across the body

Ratu Maivalili acknowledged the effort of the current President of Fiji and Tui Macuata, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, for steering the nation for the past four years.

“I wish him the best in his future,” he said.

Ratu Maivalili reiterated the President must fear God and respected the teachings of Christianity which formed the foundations of this country.

He indicated they would honour the next President despite the differences in way of leadership compared to previous leaders.

“We need a visionary leader to take this nation forward with a stable style of leadership,” he said.

Efforts to contact the Tui Labasa, Ratu Jone Qomate, for a comment were unsuccessful.

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