Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s recent appointment of seven independent MPs, formerly from the FijiFirst party, to key ministerial positions has ignited both support and criticism from various sectors of society. The new ministers and assistant ministers, sworn in last Friday, include:

– Viliame Naupoto as Minister for Immigration
– Ioane Naivalurua as Minister for Policing
– Mosese Bulitavu as Minister for Environment and Climate Change
– Aliki Bia as Assistant Minister for Information
– Josaia Niudamu as Assistant Minister for Justice
– Naisa Tuinaceva as Assistant Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services, and Transport
– Penioni Ravunawa as Assistant Minister for Health (to be sworn in next week)

This cabinet reshuffle is viewed by some as a strategic move to enhance government capacity, addressing pressing socio-economic issues in Fiji. Rabuka emphasized that expanding the cabinet could facilitate the review of the 2013 Constitution, despite lacking the required parliamentary majority for such changes.

Supporters of the reshuffle, like former civil servant Jioji Kotalabu, suggest that this could strengthen governmental efficiency and responsiveness during a critical time for the nation. However, critics, including former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, label the decision as “irresponsible,” asserting that it adds unnecessary bureaucracy without adequately addressing the country’s economic woes. They caution that concerns over increased government size and attendant costs to taxpayers must be taken into account.

Nilesh Lal, the Executive Director of Dialogue Fiji, pointed out that the unprecedented ratio of MPs in the cabinet raises alarm among citizens facing high living costs and deteriorating public services. Vani Catanasiga from the Fiji Council of Social Services acknowledged potential advantages in policy areas such as climate change and law enforcement but warned that reform initiatives could come at a substantial taxpayer cost.

The expanding cabinet and its implications underscore an urgent need for a responsible and coordinated approach to governance in Fiji. As the administration faces substantial challenges, including poverty, crime, and infrastructure issues, this new political landscape offers both an opportunity for reform and a critical test of political integrity.

In summary, while the reshuffle may present potential benefits for governance, it also raises significant questions about accountability and the prioritization of the nation’s pressing social and economic needs. As Fiji navigates this transition, it is essential to ensure that the quest for political gain does not overshadow the necessity for transparent and effective governance that truly serves its citizens.