Ratu Wiliame Katonivere has formally withdrawn his name from nomination as President for another term.
Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka made the a announcement in a statement saying he wrote to Ratu Wiliame on October 17, 2024, seeking his approval and consent to be nominated for a second term as President and Head of State under section 84(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji.
Mr Rabuka said he received formal communication on Monday, October 21, 2024 from the Tui Macuata that he withdrew his name from nomination for a second term.
“I want to pay tribute to His Excellency the President Na Gone Turaga Bale na Tui Macuata Ratu Wiliame Katonivere and acknowledge his service to the nation as our President,” Mr Rabuka said.
“His Excellency has conducted his duties as Head of State with integrity and forbearance. His steady hand at the Presidency ensured a smooth transition in Government following the December 2022 general election. He was diligent in ensuring respect for the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji despite those who sought to sway his resolve in upholding the law,” he said.
“His term in office has been marked by unprecedented freedom for the people of Fiji and he has symbolized the unity and integrity of the State at home and abroad. During his term, His Excellency Ratu Wiliame Katonivere opened State House to all Fijians, and undertook important diplomatic missions with decorum and poise.”
He said a formal vakasenuqanuqa ceremony will be conducted to express the nation’s gratitude to Ratu Wiliame in accordance with traditional protocol, at the end of his term.
Meanwhile, Mr Rabuka consulted the Parliamentary Caucus of the People’s Alliance and the name of the Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, Na Gone Turaga Bale na Tui Cakau, was formally endorsed by Caucus for nomination to the Presidency.
“The Turaga na Tui Cakau has formally consented to being nominated for the Presidency,” Mr Rabuka said.
“As Prime Minister I will move his name under section 84(2) of the Constitution at the special sitting of Parliament on Thursday 31st October 2024.
“I call on all Fijians to join me and the Coalition Government in our work to unite the nation, promote social cohesion, peace, unity, stability and prosperity.”
