Fiji PM Rabuka Faces Calls to Step Aside During Malimali Appeal

Fiji Prime Minister Considers Resignation Amidst Legal Challenge

Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is weighing a potential resignation following a High Court ruling that deemed his dismissal of Barbara Malimali, the former Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), unlawful. The possibility of stepping down hinges on the outcome of the government’s appeal to the Supreme Court, Rabuka indicated on February 3, 2026.

The legal challenge centers on Rabuka’s decision to remove Malimali from her position. The High Court found that he acted without constitutional authority in doing so. According to reports, Rabuka had previously stated he was considering resigning if the appeal failed.

The Opposition, led by Inia Seruiratu, has been critical of Rabuka’s response, characterizing his suggestion of resignation as a “calculated attempt to generate sympathy” and a distraction from the issues at hand. Seruiratu argues that Rabuka should immediately step aside as Prime Minister while the appeal process is underway, following the precedent set by former Prime Ministers Professor Biman Prasad and Manoa Kamikamica.

Seruiratu contends that anything less than stepping aside is “mere theatrics” and does little to restore public confidence. He further stated that the Prime Minister’s actions have created “chaos” and inflicted damage on the nation, accusing Rabuka of blame-shifting and a lack of genuine accountability.

The Leader of the Opposition also pointed out that Parliament is likely to be dissolved before the appeal can be heard, suggesting that floating the idea of resignation at this time is a “hollow gesture” designed to deflect responsibility. He emphasized that the responsibility for the situation rests solely with the Prime Minister.

Following a Cabinet meeting on February 3, 2026, Minister for Information Lynda Tabuya stated that Rabuka will assess the advice provided by Solicitor General Ropate Green and await the decision of the Judicial Services Commission (JSC). Tabuya indicated that Rabuka has requested a few days to consider the options available, confirming that an appeal is available to him as a citizen of Fiji.

The court’s ruling did not order the reinstatement of Barbara Malimali or determine any damages. The matter of Malimali’s future now rests with the JSC, which is considered independent of the Executive branch. Tabuya stated that once the JSC makes its decision, the Prime Minister will consider whether to file an appeal, noting that his initial decision was based on legal advice from King’s Counsel in New Zealand.

Notably, Tabuya also reported that there was unanimous support within the Cabinet for Rabuka to remain as Prime Minister, with members expressing their full support for his leadership.

The situation remains fluid as the government prepares its appeal and awaits the decision of the Judicial Services Commission. The outcome will determine not only Rabuka’s future as Prime Minister but also the ongoing efforts to address corruption within Fiji.