Today, seven Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) from the newly formed Group of Nine (G9) will be sworn in as Ministers and Assistant Ministers in Fiji’s Coalition Government. The ceremony is set to take place at 11 am at the State House and will be presided over by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka confirmed yesterday that three G9 MPs would be taking full ministerial positions. The selected G9 MPs assuming ministerial roles include Ioane Naivalurua as Minister for Policing, Viliame Naupoto as Minister for Immigration, and Mosese Bulitavu as Minister for Climate Change. Additionally, four other G9 MPs will serve as assistant ministers: Naisa Tuinaceva for Transport, Josaia Niudamu for Justice, Penioni Ravunawa for Health, and Aliki Bia for Information. However, Alipate Tuicolo and Taito Rokomatu from the G9 were not given ministerial roles, while Pio Tikoduadua will continue as Minister for Defence.
The integration of G9 MPs into government roles represents a notable transformation in Fiji’s political environment. The G9 was established in July 2024 following the deregistration of the FijiFirst party and broke away from the Opposition, which was previously led by Inia Seruiratu. Their acceptance into government roles introduces a new dynamic, as the 2013 Constitution does not specifically address the situation of crossbench MPs joining the ruling government.
Prime Minister Rabuka has hinted at his readiness to forge alliances with the G9, and Attorney-General Graham Leung remarked on the unprecedented nature of this development, stating, “If the Constitution doesn’t prohibit it, then it’s promising.”
While the Constitution indicates that MPs not aligned with the governing party must elect a Leader of the Opposition, it remains silent on the integration of crossbench MPs, leading to a situation that many political analysts characterize as “uncharted territory.” Some commentators suggest that this strategic move by Mr. Rabuka may enhance his coalition’s stability amid ongoing controversies regarding key government appointments.
In conclusion, the swearing-in of G9 MPs is not just a ministerial reshuffle; it embodies a new phase in Fiji’s political arena that could lead to more collaborative governance. The willingness of crossbench MPs to engage in government roles signals a unique opportunity for fresh approaches to the country’s challenges, ultimately fostering a more inclusive political landscape.
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