Sitiveni Rabuka is Fiji’s new prime minister garnering 28 votes to Frank Bainimarama’s 27.
The secret ballot vote in parliament ends Frank Bainimarama’s 16-year reign as leader of the country.
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has congratulated Rabuka on his new role, saying she looked forward to “working with the new government to further strengthen our very warm relationship”.
“We strongly value Fiji as a close friend and partner as we progress our shared priorities for the region,” she said.
“I wish to acknowledge former Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama’s important legacy for Fiji and his role as a regional leader supporting action on regional issues, including climate change.”
Today’s result was met with jubilant celebrations in the capital Suva and across the country on social media.
Breaking - Sitiveni Rabuka speaks to media first time after being elected Fiji’s new prime minister. He says he feels “humbled” as he makes his way to the President’s office to get sworn in. #FijiPolpic.twitter.com/C6XxeDpUxQ
Rabuka now heads a three-party coalition government consisting of his People’s First, the National Federation Party led by Biman Prasad and the king-making Sodelpa Party, led by Viliame Gavoka.
Bainimarama appears to have conceded defeat peacefully and spoke to reporters.
Former Prime Minister Bainimarama. Photo / RNZ Pacific
“I want to thank the supporters of FijiFirst,” he said. “We still are the biggest political party in there, so I want to thank them for that.
“This is democracy, and this is my legacy, the 2013 Constitution,” he said.
Breaking - Frank Bainimarama thanks the FijiFirst supporters and says “this is democracy and this is my legacy. The 2013 Constitution.” #FijiPolpic.twitter.com/irLMTdHIRV
When Bainimarama was asked if he would be opposition leader, he laughed and said, “I hope so”.
Rabuka is expected to announce the members of his Cabinet in the coming days.
Where the three Sodelpa MPs end up will be the first indication of what was agreed to in the coalition negotiations.
Tuvalu’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Kofe was one of the first foreign politicians to congratulate Rabuka.
Congratulations to 🇫🇯’s new Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rambuka. Congratulations also to the new Speaker of the House Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu and Deputy Speaker Hon Lenora Qereqeretabua @lenoraqfj. Looking forward to working with the new Government. 🇫🇯🤝🇹🇻
