Fiji: Kamikamica's Deputy Prime Minister reinstatement strengthens accountaiblity and Rabuka's coalition ahead of 2026 election
On 4 August, Manoa Kamikamica was reinstated as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Industries, Commerce, Business Development and Public Enterprises, following his acquittal on perjury and giving false information charges on 3 August. The charges arose from evidence he gave to a Commission of Inquiry into the appointment of former Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner Barbara Malimali. PM Rabuka confirmed Kamikamica's reappointment and said the return supports the Coalition Government's priorities. Kamikamica had previously held the same portfolios before stepping aside in October 2025 when the charges were initially laid. DPM Kamikamica is the deputy leader of PM Rabuka's The People's Alliance party, which forms part of the coalition government along with the National Federation Party (NFP) and the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA).
Assessment: Kamikamica's reinstatement reinforces judicial independence, accountability, and political fairness in Fiji's political system as personally held by PM Rabuka. PM Rabuka had stated in November 2025 that Kamikamica and former Deputy PM Biman Prasad (head of the NFP) would be reinstated if acquitted. The reinstatement also strengthens Rabuka's coalition ahead of the 2027 election by retaining an experienced senior partner and preserving the Coalition Government's leadership and support base.
Sources: Apenisa Waqairadovu, “Kamikamica a free man,” FBC, 3 August 2026; Mollyn Nakabea, “Kamikamica back in cabinet,” FBC, 4 August 2026; “Kamikamica Returns as Deputy Prime Minister,” Fiji One, 3 August 2026; Josefa Sigavolavola, “PM confirms return of former DPMs if acquitted,” FBC, 1 November 2025.
