Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry has recently condemned Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s announcement of appointing three new Ministers and three Assistant Ministers, deeming it an ‘irresponsible’ move. In his statement, Chaudhry criticized the Prime Minister for unnecessarily increasing the size of an already bloated government, a decision he argues lacks justification given the current critical state of Fiji’s economy and public finances. This expansion could impose an additional $4 million burden on taxpayers annually, according to Chaudhry.

Chaudhry pointed out that the Prime Minister had previously expressed concerns over the increased workload due to some ministers’ underperformance. Instead of broadening the Cabinet, Chaudhry suggests that Rabuka should have opted to replace the underperforming ministers to enhance governance efficiency. He emphasized the dissatisfaction among the public regarding the current government’s apparent self-serving nature and its perceived disconnection from the needs of the citizens.

There are speculations among some insiders within Rabuka’s party that this cabinet expansion might be a temporary maneuver designed to secure political support ahead of upcoming elections, allowing room for more substantive changes later on. However, Chaudhry expressed skepticism that such superficial adjustments would provide any relief to the ongoing and serious issues troubling the nation, including high living costs, unemployment, increasing crime rates, corruption, and deteriorating infrastructure.

This criticism highlights a broader sentiment within Fiji regarding the government’s efficacy in addressing mounting economic challenges. Chaudhry’s calls for more accountable governance resonate with a growing public demand for significant reforms. As Fiji stands at a crossroads, the push for responsible governance could potentially inspire community engagement and foster a political environment that truly prioritizes the needs of its citizens.

In summary, while the political landscape poses significant challenges, this ongoing dialogue underscores a hopeful pathway toward more accountable leadership and meaningful improvement in public administration.