Former Permanent Secretary to the Office of the Prime Minister, Jioji Kotobalavu, has expressed strong support for Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s recent decision to appoint Opposition MPs to significant ministerial roles, characterizing it as a “smart move.” He believes this innovative approach has the potential to significantly strengthen the leadership of the People’s Coalition Government, reflecting a shift toward inclusivity in governance.

Kotobalavu highlighted that under Section 92 of the 2013 Constitution, Prime Minister Rabuka has full authority to make such appointments, including those drawn from the opposition. Typically, parliamentary systems restrict ministerial roles to members of the ruling party, making this reshuffle noteworthy. The newly appointed MPs have been designated as “cross-bench MPs” with the approval of the Speaker of Parliament, legitimizing their participation in the government.

The former Permanent Secretary noted that this reshuffle could yield far-reaching positive implications for the government’s ability to serve the public effectively. By including opposition members, the People’s Coalition Government can enhance its operational capabilities and improve service delivery, ultimately benefiting the citizens. He emphasized that this pragmatic decision not only strengthens the Palestinian Authority but also fortifies Prime Minister Rabuka’s leadership within both the coalition government and the People’s Alliance party as they approach the final two years of their term.

Plans for this reshuffle include the introduction of Assistant Ministers in essential departments such as Public Works, Justice, and Health, aiming to alleviate the Prime Minister’s workload and improve governance efficiency. This strategic shift is indicative of a broader trend toward fostering collaboration and cooperation across party lines, suggesting a more united approach to governance as Fiji navigates future challenges.

In summary, Prime Minister Rabuka’s decision to appoint Opposition MPs to key positions represents a forward-looking initiative towards enhanced governance, fostering a climate of collaboration that holds promise for addressing the diverse needs of the Fijian populace. This approach emphasizes that bipartisan cooperation can lead to improved political ties and public service delivery, illuminating a hopeful path for the coalition government as it continues its work.