SODELPA to sign new deal with National Federation Party

Rabuka resigns as party leader after party loses election

SODELPA and the National Federation Party are expected to sign a deal soon on their working relationship in Opposition.

A draft copy of the memorandum of understanding was discussed at yesterday’s SODELPA management board meeting.

Sitiveni Rabuka’s resignation as party leader was discussed also.

He is the party’s lone nominee for Leader of Opposition.

His resignation was in keeping with the requirement of the party constitution that says that the party leader loses the role when the party loses an election. Party president Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu confirmed receipt of Mr Rabuka’s resignation.

“The management board has resolved that we acknowledge the resignation by virtue of what is in the party’s constitution but at the same time there are conditions still to be carried out or be met by the present Party Leader Mr Rabuka,” Ratu Naiqama said. Mr Rabuka said the MOU will guide the two parties in their working relationship as they occupy Opposition seats in Parliament. He said the details of the MOU were yet to be finalised as SODELPA awaits a response and recommendations for changes from NFP.

They would be considered by the management board before signing by both parties.

The process for the selection of Party Leader, Deputy Party Leader, Assistant General Secretary, Treasurer and Accounts Officer as decided during the SODELPA Annual General Meeting to be incorporated into the Party Constitution was also dealt with. Mr Rabuka said the machinery of selection would now begin.

“There is advertising and applications that come forward and then selection of the selection panel and selection of those that will fill those positions.”