The newly proposed People’s First Party is establishing its independence, stating that it has no ties to former political figures Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Voreqe Bainimarama. Inia Seruiratu, opposition leader and co-founder of the party, firmly dismissed allegations claiming that the new political entity had the backing of leaders from the deregistered FijiFirst Party, labeling such assertions as false.
Mr. Seruiratu emphasized, “Our proposed political party has nothing to do with the former leaders. We have broken clean from that arrangement; the party was deregistered, and they are not part of our party.” When asked if any founders from FijiFirst might seek to join the new endeavor, he confidently replied, “No, they will not join.”
Additionally, Mr. Seruiratu aligned himself with President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu’s call for integrity and respect leading up to the elections. He affirmed the importance of contesting based on ideas while adhering to principles and ethics. “Every promise and the words that we say will continue to haunt us in the future,” he noted, highlighting the need for wisdom and adherence to legal frameworks during the electoral process.
This upbeat stance from the People’s First Party suggests a fresh approach to politics in Fiji, prioritizing integrity and a clear break from previous administrations. The commitment to ethical governance may resonate with voters seeking a change in leadership dynamics.