Chaudhry Reminds Rabuka of 1999 Election Defeat

Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry has hit back at Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s remarks about his political relevance, reminding him of the Labour Party’s resounding victory in the 1999 general elections.

In response to Rabuka’s comments in The Fiji Times that he “needs to win an election to be relevant,” Chaudhry sarcastically thanked the Prime Minister for the “gem of insight” and pointed to Rabuka’s own political history.

“Let’s rewind to 1999, shall we? Labour crushed your SVT and the National Federation Party, sending you on a 20-year sabbatical to perfect the art of political hibernation,” Chaudhry said.

He noted that, unlike Rabuka’s current coalition government, the Labour Party governed with a strong mandate and prioritized the people.

Chaudhry also took a swipe at Rabuka’s return to power after two decades, suggesting that his political comeback was an example of how “even the longest timeouts can end – if one is patient enough.”

“So, cheers for the reminder that elections are the ticket! We’ll keep that in mind for 2026 when Labour’s turn rolls around again,” he said.

The former Prime Minister challenged Rabuka to prepare for the next general election, implying that political relevance is ultimately determined at the ballot box.