Momo Tui Ba Ratu Filimone Nale has declared that his province’s allegiance lies with Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry.
Speaking at the party’s annual conference in Lautoka, he said their links with the party was established 35 years ago.
He said the first Labour Prime Minister and late chief Dr Timoci Bavadra was a close relative of his.
After the passing of Dr Bavadra, he said they maintained close contact with Mr Chaudhry.
“Of course, Mr Chaudhry is also a son of Ba and it is only natural that he should wish to forge an alliance with us in Ba province,” Ratu Filimone said.
He said the late Tui Ba Ratu Sairusi Nagagavoka spearheaded the formation of Party of National Unity in 1998 with the aim to foster greater cooperation and unity among the various ethnic groups who live harmoniously in the Ba province.
“Because of our historical links, it made sense for PANU to join forces with the Labour Party and its partner, the Fijian Association Party to contest the 1999 general elections as the People’s Coalition Party.
“We won the elections convincingly with PANU winning four seats. We were delighted to be given two cabinet positions in the People’s Coalition Government.”
