Lau is moving to fill the political vacuum left after the recent passing of Vatimi Rayalu, the former minister for agriculture, with traditional leaders signalling the province will take an active role in identifying the next representative for Parliament.
Speaking after the Bose Vanua o Lau, Tui Nayau Ratu Tevita Uluilakeba Mara said the province must ensure strong leadership continues in Suva to safeguard Lau’s development priorities.
“There is a vacuum there in terms of political leadership and a representative from the yasana.”
Ratu Tevita said the matter would be determined collectively.
“Well, it’s something that the masses, maybe the provincial council would have to get together and select a candidate they believe can work with them in developing the province.”
Pressed on whether he would consider contesting the next general election, Ratu Tevita did not rule out future political ambitions but made clear that his current focus remains on the people of Lau.
“At the moment, developing the province is on my agenda at the moment, not politics,” he said.
He acknowledged the expectation placed on him following his installation as Tui Nayau and emphasised his commitment to leading provincial priorities such as improving shipping services, strengthening family structures to address drugs and HIV, and expanding economic empowerment for youth and women.
“It’s something that we believe should be enforced by enforcement agencies. But that doesn’t take away the point that we wish to bring out that the only way is to develop,” he said.
“Our own means… is the best development you can have.”
