Fiji Labour Party Leader Mahendra Chaudhry has sharply criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s recent decision to appoint three new Ministers and three Assistant Ministers, calling it an “irresponsible” act. Chaudhry’s statement highlights concerns over the expansion of a government that is already viewed as bloated, particularly in the context of Fiji’s struggling economy and public finances.

Chaudhry warned that this cabinet enlargement could impose an additional financial burden on taxpayers, estimating an added cost of $4 million annually. He emphasized that such a move is unjustifiable, given the current economic challenges facing the nation, including high living costs, unemployment, and rising crime rates.

The former Prime Minister expressed that instead of increasing the size of the Cabinet, which he describes as a superficial change, Rabuka should have considered replacing underperforming ministers to enhance efficiency. Chaudhry accused the current administration of being self-serving and disconnected from the hardships experienced by ordinary citizens.

There is speculation among some insiders within Rabuka’s party that these appointments might serve as a temporary tactic to secure political support in light of forthcoming elections. However, Chaudhry remains skeptical about the effectiveness of these changes in addressing the chronic issues faced by the Fijian populace.

He concluded by stating that merely altering the ministerial roster would not alleviate the underlying problems of high living costs, unemployment, corruption, and a lack of infrastructure investment. Chaudhry’s criticism reflects a broader public sentiment seeking greater accountability from the government, emphasizing that true governance requires addressing the root causes of the nation’s struggles rather than just their symptoms.

Overall, while the political and economic landscape presents significant challenges for Fiji, Chaudhry’s calls for responsible governance could empower citizens and encourage meaningful dialogue about the future of the nation. This push for accountability and reform introduces a hopeful pathway as Fiji looks for leadership that genuinely prioritizes the well-being of its people.