Filimoni Vosarogo, the deputy leader of Fiji's main opposition party, Sodelpa, has resigned.
The Suva-based lawyer announced yesterday that he was leaving the Social Democratic Liberal Party (Sodelpa) to join the People's Alliance Party to contest next year's General Election.
Filimoni Vosarogo. Photo: Supplied
The People's Alliance is being led by former prime minister and Sodelpa leader Sitiveni Rabuka.
In a statement, Vosarogo said he spoke on the need of a unified Sodelpa during the party's annual general meeting last year.
It's only a year since Vosarogo became deputy leader of was Sodelpa, which has been plagued with intra-party conflicts since 2019.
"I have consulted with peers, close friends and those who have supported me in the deputy leader lead-up last year. Most importantly, I have the confidence of my family in this decision.
"I will be joining the People's Alliance party as an ordinary member from next week, supporting the party for GE2022."
Vosarogo wished Sodelpa well with president Ratu Epenisa Cakobau confirming Vosarogo's resignation.
"The party respects his decision and thanks him for the services he rendered during his time in office," Ratu Epenisa said.
"Sodelpa wishes him well in his endeavours and also acknowledges his family for their support during his time with the party."
Fiji's Sodelpa leader, Sitiveni Rabuka. Photo: RNZ / Koroi Hawkins
Meanwhile, Rabuka has welcomed Vosarogo's decision to join The Peoples Alliance
"He is most welcome to join us. I've worked with him, he was my solicitor and I know what he brings to the party," Rabuka said.
Rabuka claims that opposition MPs in Sodelpa are ready to defect and join his new party.