Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu will become Fiji's next president and the Pacific country's head of state after winning a parliamentary vote.
Mr Lalabalavu will assume the largely ceremonial role in November after incumbent Wiliame Katonivere chose not to pursue a second term.
The appointment was a political victory for Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who nominated the 70-year-old and won support from across the parliament.
Mr Lalabalavu, currently parliament's speaker, and Tui Cakau - the paramount chief of Fiji's Cakaudrove confederacy - both received 37 votes, with the opposition leader's candidate, Ratu Meli Tora, securing 16.
Mr Rabuka paid tribute to Mr Katonivere for his three-year term which included a transfer of power from former strongman Frank Bainimarama to Mr Rabuka's coalition at the 2022 election.
"He was diligent in ensuring respect for the constitution of the Republic of Fiji despite those who sought to sway his resolve in upholding the law," Mr Rabuka said, according to PacNews.
"His term in office has been marked by unprecedented freedom for the people of Fiji and he has symbolised the unity and integrity of the state at home and abroad.
"During his term, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere opened State House to all Fijians and undertook important diplomatic missions with decorum and poise."
Fiji has been a republic since 1987 when Mr Rabuka led a coup that deposed the government and broke ties with the British monarchy.
