Tevita Boseiwaqa, the acting chief executive officer (CEO) of the Suva City Council, has been identified as the top-earning municipal leader in Fiji, with a reported annual salary of $159,386. This information was disclosed in Parliament by the Minister for Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, as part of a broader update regarding the salaries of acting CEOs across various municipal councils in the country.
The salary for Mr. Boseiwaqa was established by the Higher Salaries Commission. This revelation follows a parliamentary inquiry aimed at clarifying the compensation packages for acting CEOs, particularly in light of the special administrative support currently overseeing Suva City Council, Nasinu Town Council, and Tavua Town Council.
For context, the acting CEO of Nasinu Town Council, Felix Magnus, reportedly earns an annual salary of $79,549.80, whereas Sireli Korovulavula, acting CEO of Tavua Town Council, is currently receiving an annual allowance of $12,000, pending final approval from the Higher Salaries Commission.
The total expenditure on the salaries of the acting CEOs across the three councils amounts to $183,055.66. Additionally, there is a budget of $26,252 allocated for allowances covering essential support services, including official vehicles, mobile phones, internet, and travel for official duties.
Mr. Nalumisa also pointed out that the positions of executive chairs, which had been referenced in previous parliamentary discussions, have not been established. The ministry does not sanction the creation of new roles within municipal council frameworks.
This financial disclosure showcases the importance of transparency regarding public sector salaries and spending, which is vital for maintaining public trust. As municipal leaders navigate these roles during challenging economic times, their commitments to effective governance and community service will be under scrutiny, offering an opportunity for growth and improvement in local governance.
Overall, the spotlight on these salaries not only emphasizes the demands placed upon municipal leaders but also highlights the critical role they play in supporting their communities through effective leadership and resource management.
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