Participation in politics is a democratic right open to all citizens, including those with military backgrounds.
“That is what democracy is about,” Mr Rabuka said in a brief response to the Unity Fiji party leader’s call for Fijians not to repeat what he described as past mistakes by electing leaders with military backgrounds into Government.
Speaking during a talanoa session in Auckland, Mr Narube said Fiji had endured years of political instability linked to military involvement in national leadership.
“We have learned the hard way,” he said.
“Let us not make the same mistakes that we have done repeatedly and choose military people in leadership.”
Mr Narube said the country needed leaders who upheld honesty, transparency and fairness.
“We need to get an alternative leader that has the leadership qualities that we want, which is the truth, transparency, and the fairness a leader should have.”
He said voters were becoming more aware of political tactics and more discerning in their choices.
Mr Narube also said Fiji needed leadership that could restore public trust and command the respect of the people.
