Speaker of Parliament Filimone Jitoko revealed today that there has been a reevaluation of the membership of Standing and Select Committees in light of the recent incorporation of the Group of 9 Bloc into the Coalition Government. This reorganization aims to promote balanced representation and enhance governance effectiveness across various committees.
In his address to Parliament, Jitoko announced that, effective February 3, 2025, each of the six Standing Committees will now include three members from the Government and two from the Opposition, ensuring fair representation for both factions.
Changes to the committee memberships include:
– **Standing Committee on Economic Affairs**: Semi Koroilavesau will take the place of Aliki Bia, with Ketan Lal as the alternate member.
– **Standing Committee on Social Affairs**: Parveen Bala replaces Ioane Naivalurua, and Shalen Kumar serves as the alternate member.
– **Standing Committee on Natural Resources**: Vijay Nath will step in for Taito Rokomatu, with Joseph Nand as the alternate.
– **Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence**: Virendra Lal will substitute for Viliame Naupoto, also with Ketan Lal as the alternate.
– **Standing Committee on Justice, Law, and Human Rights**: Faiyaz Koya replaces Mosese Bulitavu, and Joseph Nand serves as the alternate member.
– **Standing Committee on Public Accounts**: Hem Chand will take over from Naisa Tuinaceva, with Shalen Kumar as the alternate member.
Furthermore, under Standing Order 126(1)(f), Viam Pillay will replace Naisa Tuinaceva on the House Committee, although there are no alterations to the Standing Orders Committee membership. Additionally, the membership of the Privileges Committee will now include Premila Kumar, succeeding Ratu Josaia Niudamu.
This restructuring mirrors a trend seen in recent political developments where new leadership approaches are being sought to foster collaboration between different factions within the government. The active participation of both government and opposition members in committees is expected to lead to more comprehensive policy-making and greater accountability, ultimately benefiting the governance process.
The overall atmosphere suggests a positive commitment towards inclusive politics and shared responsibilities, encouraging members of different political backgrounds to engage constructively for the greater good of the nation. As this new membership structure takes effect, there is hope that it will pave the way for enhanced dialogue and innovative solutions to address pressing national issues.
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