Opposition MP Jone Usamate has voiced strong concerns regarding the current size and efficiency of the Cabinet under the government, arguing that it undermines both institutional effectiveness and public confidence. In a recent ministerial statement in Parliament, Usamate described the Cabinet as excessively large, comprising 23 ministers and 15 assistant ministers, a total of 38 members out of 55 in Parliament. He emphasized that this unprecedented size is not only inefficient but also makes Fiji a subject of ridicule among those studying governance structures.
He noted that the large executive team encourages micromanagement and overlap within smaller ministries, leading to confusion and inefficiency. Usamate compared Fiji’s Cabinet size to those of larger nations, mentioning that New Zealand, with a population of over five million, operates with just 20 ministers, and Australia, with 26 million, has 23. “Here we have tiny little Fiji with just 900,000 people, and yet we have 23 ministers,” he remarked.
Usamate criticized the government’s tendency to politicize civil service appointments, claiming that many failed political candidates have been placed in roles that should instead be filled by competent individuals free from political baggage. He advocated for the protection of key institutions, specifically highlighting the importance of maintaining the integrity of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF). He believes that political elements must not interfere with military integrity and stressed the need for citizen oversight of agencies like the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) to enhance accountability.
His comments resonate with earlier critiques he has made regarding the government’s handling of significant issues, including its management of the Fiji Roads Authority. Highlighting the importance of institutional integrity, Usamate called for a governance framework centered around merit-based appointments to foster effective decision-making processes.
This discussion around administrative efficiency and proper governance presents hope for future reforms in Fiji’s political landscape, where a focus on accountability and transparency can potentially rebuild public trust in governmental actions. By addressing these concerns, the government may foster a more effective administration that meets the needs of its citizens.
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