Ritika Pratap 
Members of different political parties, including SODELPA, have shown interest in joining the newly proposed party by Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu.
This has been claimed by former SODELPA General Secretary Lenaitasi Duru, who was present at today’s announcement by Seruiratu.
Duru had made headlines after the last General Election when he was involved in forming a coalition with the now disbanded FijiFirst or People’s Alliance Party.
His falling out was followed by his resignation from the party with several accusations having been thrown about.
He claims to have support.
“Since I came back from the (United) States, I’ve had a few people who have been asking for this formation of a new party. I’ve asked them to be patient, let’s wait and see.”
Duru adds that they want people to have more choices heading into the 2026 General Election, rather than being limited by the current options.
“I have had talks with people and they are not happy with the current choices that are available for 2026. So, we are trying to put together a credible team, a reliable team that can deliver. We are looking for young, vibrant politicians to come and join once we have registered the party.”
He also clarified misconceptions, stating that this will be a completely new political party, not a breakaway from FijiFirst.
Duru adds that the proposed party will focus on correcting the mistakes of the past.
Notable figures in the proposed new party include Jone Usamate, Virendra Lal, Parveen Bala, Sachida Nand and Alvick Maharaj.
Seruiratu during the announcement this morning had also stated that over the past two years, they have witnessed the Coalition Government at work “with its many shortcomings.”
