Former Permanent Secretary to the Office of the Prime Minister, Jioji Kotobalavu, has expressed his strong endorsement for Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s strategic decision to appoint Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) to key ministerial roles, characterizing it as a “smart move.” This approach is seen as a significant opportunity to enhance the leadership and governance of the People’s Coalition Government.

Kotobalavu highlighted that under Section 92 of the 2013 Constitution, Prime Minister Rabuka has the full authority to appoint ministers and assistant ministers, a power typically confined to members of the ruling party. What distinguishes this latest reshuffle is the inclusion of opposition MPs, who have been granted “cross-bench” status—a designation approved by the Speaker of Parliament, legitimizing their roles in the government.

He believes that this new cabinet configuration will yield substantial benefits for the government’s functionality, allowing it to serve the citizens of Fiji more effectively and efficiently. Furthermore, Kotobalavu outlined that this pragmatic decision not only solidifies Rabuka’s leadership within the coalition government but also strengthens his position within the People’s Alliance party as they navigate the latter part of their term.

Plans are in place to appoint Assistant Ministers in critical sectors such as Public Works, Justice, and Health—initiatives aimed at alleviating the Prime Minister’s workload and enhancing service delivery. This reflects a broader trend toward inclusivity and collaboration across political lines, which Kotobalavu views as essential for fostering a more united approach to governance.

Overall, PM Rabuka’s decision to integrate opposition members within the cabinet signifies a hopeful and adaptive strategy that holds the potential to improve political relations and public service delivery. By embracing bipartisan cooperation, the government is better equipped to address the diverse needs of the Fijian populace, paving the way for a more effective and responsive governance structure as it faces future challenges. This shift may indeed mark a significant turning point for Fiji’s political landscape, highlighting the positive impact of innovative leadership strategies focused on collaboration and unity.