Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s recent decision to expand Fiji’s Cabinet to 22 ministers has sparked intense debate and raised questions about its conformity to the Coalition Agreement currently in force among the People’s Alliance, the National Federation Party, and the Social Democratic Liberal Party, which clearly states that the Cabinet should consist of no more than 20 members.

Constitutional expert Jon Apted highlighted that this expansion breaches the explicit terms of the agreement, potentially endangering the coalition’s stability. Apted characterized the Coalition Agreement as a “gentleman’s agreement,” lacking legal enforceability but rooted in mutual respect and cooperation among coalition partners. He explained that any party feeling aggrieved by a potential breach has the option to seek a solution internally or consider exiting the coalition.

Adding further complexity is the backdrop of ongoing challenges within Fiji’s sugarcane sector, where many growers are signaling intentions to leave due to uncertainties about their future, heightening public calls for government accountability and responsiveness to pressing socio-economic concerns such as climate change and rising living costs.

Public sentiments regarding the Cabinet expansion are mixed. Advocates argue that a larger Cabinet could enhance the government’s ability to respond effectively to critical issues. However, critics, including former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, have raised concerns that this move may lead to unnecessary bureaucracy without properly addressing fundamental challenges like poverty.

Despite the controversy, there is a sense of hope among observers that these political changes could result in improved governance. The expectation is that as the government reassesses its priorities and engages openly with citizens, it can foster public trust and a more responsive administration.

In summary, while the recent Cabinet expansion raises serious questions about governance and adherence to the Coalition Agreement, it simultaneously presents an opportunity for fostering reform and enhancing government efficiency. There is optimism that through careful navigation of these changes, the Fijian government can emerge more unified and better equipped to address the diverse challenges facing its citizens, paving the way for a brighter and more collaborative future.