Sitiveni Rabuka becomes new prime minister after a coalition of parties vote to support him, signalling an end to Frank Bainimarama's 16 years of power in the Pacific archipelago.
Fiji's long-time prime minister said the military had been deployed to maintain "law and order", as the former coup leader refused to concede defeat after a close election.
Incumbent Frank Bainimarama's Fiji First party and a coalition led by Sitiveni Rabuka were both projected to secure 26 seats in the 55-seat parliament, according to a Fijian Election Office tally.
Cyclone Harold, its strength ranked in the highest category of five, passed over Fiji's south at about midday, levelling homes and snapping communications links in the archipelago, which has adopted curbs on movement to rein in the virus.
Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama, former military leader who led a bloodless takeover 12 years ago, favourite to retain office against a fractured opposition.
The Category 4 storm hit in middle of night causing widespread damage but there were no confirmed reports of deaths.
Up to 25,000 people are expected to attend the UN's annual conference on fighting climate change in Germany.
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