Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, has stated that he played no role in the appointment of the ministry’s newly elected permanent secretary, Paula Cirikiyasawa. Vosarogo explained that Cirikiyasawa was appointed independently by the Public Service Commission (PSC).
Despite Cirikiyasawa hailing from Ra, Vosarogo mentioned a personal connection, noting that Cirikiyasawa’s mother is from the area near his village. Last Friday marked their first official visit together since Cirikiyasawa took on his new role the previous month.
“I am traveling for the first time with my newly appointed permanent secretary, but I can tell you that I have no part at all in his appointment,” Vosarogo affirmed.
The PSC highlighted that Cirikiyasawa brings over 20 years of professional experience to the position, having previously worked in the Ministry of Commerce, Business Development, and Investment. He has also held significant roles in the National Planning Office and was associated with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) since 2018, where he focused on contributing to global development efforts.
Cirikiyasawa holds a master’s degree in International Relations and Diplomacy, along with a bachelor’s degree in economics and political science. He succeeds Dr. Raijeli Taga in the permanent secretary role.