Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya has endorsed Speaker of the House Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu as the next President of Fiji.
In a statement, Ms Tabuya praised the Tui Cakau’s leadership and push for more women leaders.
“As Opposition Whip while he was Leader of Opposition and then Leader of Government Business in Parliament and him as Speaker of Parliament, I have experienced firsthand his able and fair
leadership, with passion and commitment to gender equality and women’s leadership,” said Ms Tabuya.
“Never at any time as a woman leader, did I ever feel I was not an equal partner in decision making.
“In fact, the Tui Cakau would often create the space for me to be visible as a woman leader who earned every right to be at the table.
“In order to break the cycle of patriarchy, we women need male champions for gender equality, and I am confident to state publicly that the honourable Speaker is one such champion, who I have no doubt will take this to the State House as the next President of the Republic of Fiji.”
Ratu Naiqama accepted the offer by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to be government’s nominee for President.
He takes over as government nominee from Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere who withdrew his nomination earlier this week.
Parliament will vote for the next President on October 31.
