Coalition stability remains intact despite speculation of a leadership breakdown, says Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
This is following the resignation of Finance Minister and deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad from Cabinet.
Rabuka confirmed that Professor Prasad will remain a Member of Parliament and the National Federation Party (NFP) caucus and thanked him and his family for their service since December 2022.
“According to the discussion I had this morning, it will not impact the coalition partnership between the National Federation Party and the other two partners, so that is still intact.”
Rabuka also announced the appointment of Emmanuel, formerly Assistant Minister of Finance, to take over some of the portfolios left vacant by the resignations.
He stressed that the resignations stem from individual circumstances and are not part of any strategy to consolidate power ahead of the 2026 election.
The Prime Minister emphasised that legal proceedings against Prof Prasad will be handled by the courts and that coalition agreements and Cabinet operations will continue as planned.
Rabuka stated the government has not used the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) as a political tool.
He emphasised that FICAC has remained independent and that he has not personally intervened in any of its cases.
Rabuka said the government came into office with a mandate to review FICAC and, if necessary, return its functions to the police but no misuse of the institution has taken place.
The Prime Minister also rejected claims that FICAC is being weaponised against political opponents, stressing that the Act governing FICAC must be respected until any amendments are passed.
He assured that the government’s respect for law and order provides confidence for investors and international partners.
“Government has not used FICAC as its weapon, nor have I personally tried to use FICAC. In fact, I have not had any dealings with FICAC.”
Rabuka noted that turbulence in Cabinet does not automatically translate to political instability.
He reaffirmed the principle that everyone is equal under the law and said investors should trust Fiji’s legal and institutional framework.
Rabuka urged confidence in governance and stressed that the country remains a safe environment for business despite recent political developments.
He said recent Cabinet changes do not signal government instability and should not shake investor confidence.
Rabuka made the assurance after the resignations of Manoa Kamikamica and Professor Biman Prasad, who both stepped down following corruption charges by FICAC.
“Turbulence in Cabinet does not necessarily mean instability in Government. In fact, they should also respect our respect for law and order, and our concept that everybody is equal under the law. That should give them confidence to stay in Fiji.”
Rabuka said the government remains committed to upholding the rule of law and providing a stable environment for business and investment.
