PRIME Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has dismissed the idea of retiring from politics, saying political involvement went beyond holding office.
“What do you mean by retiring from politics? Who can ever retire from politics?”
Mr Rabuka made this comment after he was asked whether he was planning to leave politics after his term in Parliament.
In response to queries from this newspaper, he said while one could leave a political party, they remained engaged in politics through voting and expressing their views.
“I can retire from the political party, but we will continue to be in politics because we vote and we air our views.”
He said politics was not just those who stand as candidates to be elected.
People’s Alliance vice president Ratu Jo Dimuri said Mr Rabuka was still fit to lead in the upcoming elections, despite concerns about his health.
Ratu Jo admitted Mr Rabuka faces some medical challenges, including occasional knee pain.
“He at times complains of a sore knee,” he said.
However, he dismissed calls for Rabuka to retire.
“Well, people are saying that he should retire. It’s about time that he calls it a day, but I believe the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka still has it.”
While he recognised that leadership decisions ultimately rested with the party, he said Mr Rabuka’s willingness to lead again would be a positive move.
“It depends on the party. If he’s willing to come forward and contest with other people who may be contending for leadership, I think that’s a good thing about us.”
He said they had capable individuals who could step in if needed.
