Tevita Boseiwaqa serves as the acting chief executive officer (CEO) of Suva City Council and has been identified as the highest-paid municipal leader in Fiji, with an annual salary of $159,386. This figure was disclosed in Parliament by the Minister for Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, as part of a report detailing the salaries of acting CEOs across the country’s municipal councils.
The determination of Mr. Boseiwaqa’s salary was conducted by the Higher Salaries Commission and was included in a response to a written question posed in Parliament. Notably, Suva City Council, along with Nasinu Town Council and Tavua Town Council, is currently managed by special administrators who are acting as CEOs.
The report outlined that the compensation for acting CEOs is calculated based on a formula that includes a significant portion of the difference between the Special Administrator’s salary and the CEO’s base salary. Acting CEO Felix Magnus from Nasinu Town Council earns an annual salary of $79,549.80, while Sireli Korovulavula, the acting CEO of Tavua Town Council, is currently receiving a $12,000 annual allowance, which is awaiting approval from the Higher Salaries Commission for his full salary.
Combined, these three councils are allocating $183,055.66 for the salaries of these acting CEOs, in addition to $26,252 earmarked for allowances related to official vehicles, mobile phones, internet services, and travel for official duties. Mr. Nalumisa also clarified that executive chair positions previously raised in questions have not been established, as the ministry does not sanction the creation of new roles within municipal council frameworks.
This update sheds light on the financial commitments of local councils in Fiji and highlights the importance of transparent salary disclosures for public officials. As local governments continue to adapt to various challenges, understanding the compensation structure can help citizens appreciate the leadership positions and the work being done behind the scenes for their communities.
In summary, the transparency around municipal salaries reflects a growing commitment to accountability in governance, fostering hope for enhanced collaboration between local authorities and the public.
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