Former Permanent Secretary to the Office of the Prime Minister, Jioji Kotobalavu, has applauded Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s strategic decision to appoint Opposition MPs to important ministerial roles, calling it a “smart move.” Kotobalavu emphasized that this innovative approach has the potential to strengthen the leadership of the People’s Coalition Government significantly.

Highlighting the legal framework for these appointments, Kotobalavu noted that under Section 92 of the 2013 Constitution, Prime Minister Rabuka is fully empowered to appoint ministers and assistant ministers, encompassing members from the opposition. Typically, such roles are dominated by members of the ruling party, making these cross-bench appointments notable.

The MPs selected for these positions hold a special “cross-bench” status, formally approved by the Speaker of Parliament, which legitimizes their participation in these ministerial roles. Kotobalavu believes this reshuffle will have profound positive effects, enhancing the government’s governance capabilities, improving service delivery, and ultimately benefiting the Fijian populace.

He added that this pragmatic decision not only solidifies Rabuka’s authority within the People’s Coalition Government but also strengthens his leadership within the People’s Alliance party, especially as they approach the latter part of their term. Plans may include appointing Assistant Ministers in essential sectors such as Public Works, Justice, and Health, aiming to alleviate some of the Prime Minister’s workload and encourage more efficient governance.

This reshuffle signifies a broader trend toward inclusivity and bipartisan collaboration in Fiji’s political landscape. Kotobalavu’s endorsements reflect a hopeful vision for the future, suggesting that such innovative leadership strategies can lead to a more unified and effective government, better equipped to meet the diverse needs of its citizens.

In summary, by incorporating opposition members into ministerial roles, PM Rabuka is fostering a more cooperative governance framework. This strategic shift not only enhances operational efficiency but also paves the way for improved political relations and public service delivery, marking a positive development as Fiji confronts future challenges.