The recent appointment of three additional Cabinet ministers and three assistant ministers in Fiji has expanded the Cabinet to a total of 22 members, raising questions about adherence to a coalition agreement established in 2022. The agreement involves The People’s Alliance (PA), the National Federation Party (NFP), and SODELPA, and specifically limits the number of Cabinet ministers to 20, as outlined in Clause 4.

This recent move by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has been criticized as a violation of the coalition agreement. Although the Prime Minister retains the prerogative to allocate ministerial portfolios, the agreement mandates that there must be prior consultation with coalition partners. Concerns have intensified due to the reassignment of crucial portfolios such as Policing, Immigration, and Climate Change, which could indicate potential instability within the coalition government.

Political analysts and opposition members have expressed their dissatisfaction, arguing that this expansion complicates governance at a time when Fiji faces pressing socio-economic issues, including poverty and the high cost of living. Critics warn that increasing the number of ministers may lead to unnecessary bureaucracy, hampering the government’s ability to respond effectively to these challenges.

On the other hand, some political observers view the Cabinet expansion as an opportunity for improved governance. Supporters argue that a larger Cabinet could enhance the government’s capacity to tackle key issues like climate change and public safety, potentially leading to a more responsive administration that addresses the needs of citizens. This perspective reflects a hopeful sentiment that the structural changes might foster greater public trust in democratic institutions.

In summary, while the increase in the Cabinet size poses significant questions regarding compliance with political agreements and the overall effectiveness of governance, it also opens up avenues for reform and potential improvement. The hope lies in the ability of the government to leverage these changes for the betterment of all Fijians, facilitating a governance structure that is not only functional but also genuinely reflective of the populace’s needs and aspirations.