Seven opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Group of Nine (G9) are being sworn in today as Ministers and Assistant Ministers in Fiji’s Coalition Government. The swearing-in ceremony will take place at 11 am at the State House, presided over by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has confirmed that three G9 MPs will be appointed to full ministerial positions: Ioane Naivalurua as Minister for Policing, Viliame Naupoto as Minister for Immigration, and Mosese Bulitavu, who will take on the role of Minister for Climate Change. Four additional G9 MPs will serve as assistant ministers, including Naisa Tuinaceva for Transport, Josaia Niudamu for Justice, Penioni Ravunawa for Health, and Aliki Bia for Information. Meanwhile, two G9 MPs, Alipate Tuicolo and Taito Rokomatu, will not hold ministerial roles.

This significant elevation of G9 MPs into government positions represents a transformative shift in Fiji’s political landscape. The G9 was formed in July 2024 following the deregistration of the FijiFirst party, breaking away from the earlier opposition structure. Their inclusion in the government introduces a new dynamic, one not specifically addressed by the 2013 Constitution, which does not provide explicit guidelines for crossbench MPs joining the ruling coalition.

Prime Minister Rabuka has previously indicated his willingness to collaborate with the G9, signaling a strategic move that may strengthen his coalition amid ongoing political controversies. Attorney-General Graham Leung described this situation as “uncharted territory,” suggesting the lack of prohibitive clauses in the Constitution could lead to promising new governance dynamics.

As the G9 MPs assume their roles, this development presents a hopeful opportunity for enhanced collaboration within the government. By combining diverse perspectives from various political backgrounds, this new alignment may enable more comprehensive approaches to key issues such as health, justice, and environmental policy.

In summary, the swearing-in of G9 MPs not only marks a pivotal transition in Fiji’s political arena, but it also offers the potential for innovative governance that prioritizes inclusivity and cooperation, ultimately benefiting the citizens of Fiji.