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 Members of Parliament (MPs) to significant ministerial positions, which he characterizes as a “smart move.” Kotobalavu views this initiative as a crucial opportunity to enhance the leadership of the People’s Coalition Government, deviating from traditional parliamentary practices that typically reserve ministerial roles for ruling party members.

Under Section 92 of the 2013 Constitution, Prime Minister Rabuka has the constitutional authority to appoint ministers and assign their responsibilities. What distinguishes this reshuffle is the inclusion of Opposition MPs, who have been granted “cross-bench MP” status approved by the Speaker of Parliament. This unique arrangement not only affirms the appointments’ legitimacy but also marks a broader commitment to inclusivity within governance.

Kotobalavu believes this strategic move could yield significant positive outcomes, enhancing the government’s ability to address the needs of citizens more effectively. He suggests that this reshuffle could bolster the People’s Coalition Government’s capacity to govern efficiently while simultaneously strengthening Rabuka’s leadership within the government and his People’s Alliance party.

Furthermore, plans to introduce Assistant Ministers in essential sectors such as Public Works, Justice, and Health aim to relieve the Prime Minister’s workload and improve service delivery. The reshuffle signifies a hopeful trend towards bipartisan collaboration, indicating that such cooperative strategies can lead to improved governance and public service experiences.

In summary, PM Rabuka’s bold decision to involve opposition members in key ministerial roles reflects an innovative and inclusive approach to governance. It positions the coalition government to better meet the diverse needs of the Fijian population as it approaches its remaining term in office with a hopeful outlook for more effective leadership and enhanced public service delivery.