The recent appointment of three additional Cabinet ministers and three assistant ministers has expanded Fiji’s Cabinet to a total of 22 members, which raises questions regarding adherence to a previous agreement established in 2022 between The People’s Alliance (PA), the National Federation Party (NFP), and SODELPA. This appointment is seen as a breach of Clause 4 of the agreement, which stipulates that the Cabinet should not exceed 20 members.

According to the 2022 Agreement, the Prime Minister is designated to come from the PA, supported by three Deputy Prime Ministers from each coalition party: PA, NFP, and SODELPA. While the Prime Minister has the prerogative to allocate ministerial portfolios, it is essential that there be consultation with coalition partners. The recent reassignment of portfolios, including Policing, Immigration, and Climate Change, raises concerns about the coalition’s stability and its capacity to navigate future challenges.

Political analysts and opposition members have expressed their dissatisfaction, suggesting that this Cabinet expansion could lead to detrimental consequences for the coalition government. The relevant portion of the Agreement clearly outlines the necessity for democratic principles of respect and cooperation among parties, highlighting the importance of honoring political commitments.

Interestingly, the discussion around government size coincides with prior cabinet reshuffles, notably Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s appointment of seven independent Members of Parliament, formerly from the FijiFirst party, into significant roles. While some see this move as an opportunity to enhance the government’s capability to tackle pressing social issues, critics have denounced the continuous expansion as irresponsible, arguing it adds unnecessary layers of bureaucracy during a time of economic difficulty.

Amid the criticisms, there is hope that this evolving political situation can lead to greater transparency and accountable governance. The prevailing sentiment suggests that as the government reassesses its priorities, there remains a chance to address critical socio-economic challenges faced by citizens. The aspiration is for these changes to ultimately foster a governance structure that mirrors the citizens’ needs, potentially paving the way for improved public trust in democratic institutions.

In summary, the Cabinet expansion presents both challenges and opportunities as the Fijian government navigates its constitutional commitments while addressing societal necessities. The hope lies in the possibility that through these transitions, the government may emerge as a more responsive entity that prioritizes the well-being of all Fijians.