Last term for Ratu Mara?
p. 26 · Read in the full issue
Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, Fiji’s Prime Minister, who is certain to lead his Alliance Government back into power for the next five years, hopes to retire at the end of those five years.
In an exclusive interview in Suva in March with John Carter, PIM’s assistant editor, he said: “I will carry on for the next five years, that is, if I am picked to do so. I have often said I would like to retire soon after reaching 55. I will be 57 by the time the next government ends.
If I can’t find someone to take over after five years, I will look for someone after 10 years.
“I would rather work towards giving up the reins in five years’ time, to allow those who will take over to go on in the next five years. I will still be young enough to go back if needs be rather than carry on in office until I am doddering, going on and on until I can’t do anything.”
He added that he was impressed with the calibre of those who could possibly take leadership within the next five years. But he declined to name anyone. 6 For the interview, see p. 34.