Fiji Labour Party Leader Mahendra Chaudhry has voiced strong criticism regarding Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s announcement of appointing three new Ministers and three Assistant Ministers, labeling the decision as ‘irresponsible.’ In his statement, Chaudhry condemned the Prime Minister for expanding an already bloated government at a time when Fiji’s economy and public finances are in a critical state.

Chaudhry estimates that this cabinet enlargement could impose an additional financial burden of approximately $4 million on taxpayers annually. He expressed that the Prime Minister’s motivation appears to focus on securing political support and easing his workload by incorporating more ministers, rather than effectively addressing the pressing concerns that citizens face, such as high living costs and unemployment.

The former Prime Minister highlighted that instead of increasing the number of ministers, Rabuka should have replaced those who are underperforming. “People are unhappy and disappointed with Mr. Rabuka and his government,” he stated, accusing them of being self-serving and insensitive to the public’s needs.

Speculation among insiders suggests that these appointments could be a tactical maneuver by Rabuka to bolster his support ahead of upcoming elections, with a possibility of more substantial changes later. However, Chaudhry doubts that such superficial adjustments will provide relief from ongoing issues such as rising crime rates, corruption, and deteriorating infrastructure.

Chaudhry’s criticism resonates with a wider public sentiment calling for greater accountability from the government, advocating for leadership that genuinely prioritizes the well-being of Fiji’s citizens. As Fiji navigates its political and economic landscape, the call for responsible governance brings a hopeful perspective on potential reforms and improvements in public administration.

In summary, while Fiji grapples with significant challenges, the emphasis on accountable governance opens pathways for meaningful dialogue and reform, encouraging a political environment that seeks to truly address the needs of its people. This ongoing discussion reflects a hopeful outlook for enhanced leadership committed to fostering a better future for all citizens.