Alitia Bainivalu, the Assistant Minister for Tourism, has assumed office as the new Minister for Fisheries and Forests, following her swearing-in ceremony today. This change in leadership arose in the wake of the resignation of the previous Minister, Kalaveti Ravu.
Ravu’s departure from the Cabinet came after charges were filed against him by FICAC, leading to his appearance in the Magistrates Court yesterday.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka publicly commented on Bainivalu’s appointment saying, “With the resignation of Hon. Ravu, we are appointing Hon. Alitia Bainivalu as the Minister for Fisheries and Forests. At current, she is serving as the Assistant Minister for Tourism and Government Chief Whip.”
Rabuka further highlighted Bainivalu’s credentials for the position, citing her extensive experience in the fisheries sector as a former senior Fisheries Officer. In addition to her experience, Bainivalu holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of the South Pacific and a Masters degree in Marine Science from the Tokyo University of Marine Science & Technology.
As per related news, following his resignation, Ravu will continue serving as a backbencher.