Opposition Member of Parliament Premila Kumar has sharply criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka over his recent Cabinet expansion, arguing that it undermines the government’s pre-election promise to reduce costs and streamline operations. With the appointment of seven new ministers and assistant ministers, the Cabinet has now swelled to a historic total of 34 members, comprising 22 Cabinet Ministers and 12 Assistant Ministers, marking one of the largest Cabinets in Fiji’s history.

Kumar expressed her frustration by questioning the integrity of the government’s initial pledge: “What happened to their promise of reducing government size and cutting unnecessary costs?” She contended that instead of addressing inefficiencies and holding underperforming ministers accountable, this Cabinet expansion effectively serves as a “bailout” for ineffective leaders, undermining the interests of hardworking Fijians.

The financial implications of the Cabinet’s growth are alarming, especially for taxpayers already grappling with a rising cost of living. Kumar stressed that resources allocated to the expanded Cabinet could be better spent on urgent national issues, such as aiding families affected by recent floods, addressing chronic shortages of medicines in hospitals, and repairing critical infrastructure.

In defense of his decision, Prime Minister Rabuka argued that the Cabinet expansion is not a prelude to securing power ahead of the 2026 General Election, but rather an essential step towards improving government efficiency and service delivery. However, critics, including former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, have echoed Kumar’s sentiments, condemning the expansion as financially irresponsible during a time of economic strain for many citizens.

Despite the backlash, this situation presents an opportunity for meaningful discussions about governance and accountability in Fiji. The criticism could prompt the government to reevaluate its strategies and policies, fostering a more effective administration that aligns with the public’s needs. Observers remain hopeful that this increased scrutiny could lead to necessary reforms that restore public trust and enhance service delivery for all Fijians.

In summary, while the recent Cabinet expansion has sparked considerable controversy, it also highlights a critical moment for potential reforms within the Fijian government. By focusing on accountability and the genuine concerns of the populace, there is hope for a more responsive leadership model that prioritizes effective governance and public service.