People First Party backs inclusive leadership

The People First Party (PFP) has reserved three vice-president positions for women, youth and persons with disabilities as part of its commitment to inclusive leadership ahead of the next General Election.

Independent MP Alvick Maharaj, a founding member of the party, said PFP was also recruiting prospective candidates from diverse backgrounds to reflect its commitment to equality.

"Officially, PFP has not started its election campaign, but we have started engaging at the grassroots level to identify potential election candidates," Mr Maharaj said.

He said the party had not finalised any candidates but expected that to change in the coming months.

"PFP has advertised for potential election candidates. People have applied, and we have an independent selection committee that will vet, interview and select capable candidates," he said.

Mr Maharaj said party members had been visiting communities to promote PFP's values and introduce its leadership team.

Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu is the party leader.

Mr Maharaj said youth participation would be a key focus for the party, noting that young people make up more than half of Fiji's population.

"The way we are trying to promote our party, we definitely want as many youths as possible. We will try to ensure that youths are part of our party," he said.

He said the vice-president positions for women, youth and persons with disabilities would be filled through nominations and elections by their respective party wings.

Mr Maharaj said the party's constitution had been designed to ensure representation of young people and marginalised groups within its executive structure.

Candidate announcement

Mr Maharaj said PFP would announce its candidates and election manifesto once there was certainty over the timing of the next General Election.

"Before we announce our candidates and party manifesto, we are still waiting to know whether we will have the election or not. The Prime Minister needs to come out clearly on whether we are having an election," he said.

"It does not make sense if we announce our candidates and they go out campaigning only to be told later that there will be no election."