Fiji: Resignation of deputy prime ministers will likely affect coalition support
On 22 October 2025, Manoa Kamikamica resigned from Cabinet and his post as Deputy Prime Minister after being charged by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) with perjury and providing false information to a public servant. The charges were linked to Commission of Inquiry (COI) reports on Barbara Malimali’s controversial 2024 appointment as FICAC Commissioner. Kamikamica was granted bail on 24 October 2025 with a $AUD6,730 bond. Separately, on 28 October 2025, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad also resigned following separate charges laid by FICAC for failing to declare a company directorship under the Political Parties Act. Prime Minister Rabuka confirmed both resignations, and stated that the deputies could return to office if acquitted. The Opposition Fiji Labour Party described the resignations as evidence of political instability. PM Rabuka also dismissed accusations of him using legal processes to eliminate political opponents to remain in power.
Assessment: Should either of these cases be resolved quickly and the deputies be reinstated, these incidents are unlikely to have an effect on the mid-2026 general election. The charges reflect a positive commitment by Fiji to accountability in public office. PM Rabuka’s intention to reinstate the charged deputies if acquitted reflects a supportive yet objective position, indicating his firm personal stance toward ethical and integrity standards within government. It is important to note that the two cases are entirely separate, with Prasad's case being relatively historic and minor.
Sources: Apenisa Waqairadovu, “Kamikamica resigns from Cabinet and DPM post,” FBC, October 21, 2025; Nikhil Aiyush Kumar, “Kamikamica granted a $10, 000 bail bond,” FBC, October 24, 2025; “Prof Prasad resigns from Cabinet, remains MP,” FijiLive, October 28, 2025; “Emmanuel appointed Acting Finance Minister,” FijiLive, October 28, 2025; “'Political chaos': Fiji PM Rabuka confirms Biman Prasad’s resignation after anti-corruption charges,” RNZ, October 29, 2025; Josefa Sigavolavola “PM confirms return of former DPMs if acquitted,” FBC, November 1, 2025; “PAP is not involved in scheming, Rabuka clarifies,” FijiLive, October 28, 2025.
