Former Permanent Secretary to the Office of the Prime Minister, Jioji Kotobalavu, has praised Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s decision to appoint Opposition MPs to significant ministerial positions, calling it a “smart move.” Kotobalavu believes this strategic decision could greatly enhance the leadership of the People’s Coalition Government. He underlined that this is an innovative approach in Fiji’s political landscape, moving away from the usual practice where ministerial positions are filled solely by members of the ruling party.
Under Section 92 of the 2013 Constitution, Prime Minister Rabuka is empowered to appoint ministers and assistant ministers. Notably, the current reshuffle includes members from the opposition, a departure from typical parliamentary norms. The MPs involved have been designated as “cross-bench MPs,” a status approved by the Speaker of Parliament, allowing their participation in cabinet roles despite their opposition affiliation.
Kotobalavu indicated that this reshuffle could lead to extensive positive outcomes for the government, enhancing its capacity to manage the country effectively and deliver improved services to the populace. He noted that such a pragmatic approach would bolster both the operational capability of the People’s Coalition Government and PM Rabuka’s leadership within his own party as they prepare for the final years of their term.
The reshuffle is expected to include the appointment of Assistant Ministers in vital areas such as Public Works, Justice, and Health, aiming to alleviate the Prime Minister’s workload and bolster effective governance. This initiative reflects a broader trend towards inclusivity and collaboration across party lines, indicating a hopeful outlook for improved political cooperation and governmental effectiveness in Fiji.
In summary, Prime Minister Rabuka’s historic move to involve opposition members in key ministerial roles signifies a potential shift towards more collaborative governance, enhancing the government’s ability to meet the diverse needs of the Fijian populace. With these changes, there is optimism that Fiji’s political environment will benefit from this increased collaboration, setting a precedent for a more unified approach to addressing future challenges.
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