President of Fiji facts for kids
The President of Fiji is the head of state of the Republic of Fiji. This means they are the main leader and symbol of the country. The president is chosen by the Parliament for a three-year term. This is set out in the 2013 Constitution.
While the president's role is mostly ceremonial, like representing the country at events, they do have important special powers. These powers can be used during a big crisis. The president is also the commander-in-chief of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, meaning they are the top leader of Fiji's military.
Quick facts for kids President of Fiji |
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| Style | His Excellency |
| Residence | State House |
| Appointer | Parliament of Fiji |
| Term length | Three years, renewable once |
| Precursor | Monarchy of Fiji |
| Inaugural holder | Penaia Ganilau |
| Formation | 5 December 1987 |
| Deputy | Vice-President of Fiji (1990–2013) Chief Justice of Fiji (2013–present) |
| Salary | FJ$130,000 annually |
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Contents
History of the President's Role
The role of president started after two military coups in 1987. A military coup is when the armed forces take control of the government. These events led to Fiji becoming a republic on October 7, 1987. This meant the end of the Fijian monarchy.
Major-General Sitiveni Rabuka led these coups. He formed a temporary military government. On December 5, 1987, he appointed Ratu Sir Penaia Ganilau as the first president. Ratu Sir Penaia Ganilau had been the last governor-general under the monarchy.
Changes in Leadership: 2000 and 2006
In 2000, there was another big change in government. President Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara stepped down on May 29. Commodore Frank Bainimarama then took charge of a temporary military government. Later, on July 13, Ratu Josefa Iloilo became president.
On December 5, 2006, the military again took control of the government. Bainimarama first said he was acting president temporarily. He later insisted he was the president. However, Iloilo was put back in as president on January 4, 2007.
How Presidents are Chosen
For a while, the military said they would choose the president. This was because the Great Council of Chiefs was suspended. The Great Council of Chiefs was a group of traditional Fijian leaders.
Some people suggested that the president should be from any ethnic background, not just indigenous Fijians. Others, like Rewa chief Ro Filipe Tuisawau, believed the role should stay with traditional Fijian leaders. He said the president's position connects Fiji's old leadership traditions with its modern Westminster system of government.
On July 28, 2009, President Iloilo announced he would leave office. Brigadier-General (Rtd) Ratu Epeli Nailatikau became acting president. On November 5, 2009, Nailatikau was officially sworn in as president.
In March 2012, the government led by Bainimarama ended the Great Council of Chiefs. This meant a new way to choose the president was needed. This new method was included in the new Constitution adopted in 2013.
On October 12, 2015, the Parliament elected Major-General (Rtd) Jioji Konrote as president. He was sworn in on November 12, 2015. Konrote was re-elected on August 31, 2018.
On October 22, 2021, the Parliament elected Ratu Wiliame Katonivere as president. He was sworn in on November 12, 2021.
List of Presidents
See also
