The Prime Minister of Fiji, Sitiveni Rabuka, has made the controversial decision to expand the Cabinet to 22 members, which has ignited considerable debate regarding its compliance with the Coalition Agreement established in 2022 among the People’s Alliance, the National Federation Party, and the Social Democratic Liberal Party. This agreement explicitly stipulates a cap of 20 ministers, raising questions about potential violations that could undermine the coalition’s stability.
Constitutional lawyer Jon Apted has noted that while the Coalition Agreement is not legally binding—characterized as a “gentleman’s agreement”—it relies heavily on mutual respect and cooperation among coalition partners. He indicated that any perceived breach could lead to internal resolutions among the parties or even prompt members to exit the coalition. Importantly, Apted clarified that independent MPs who previously contested elections under one party’s ticket do not face constitutional barriers to serving as ministers in a coalition government.
The Cabinet’s expansion comes against the backdrop of pressing socio-economic issues in Fiji, notably the ongoing challenges in the sugarcane industry, with many growers expressing intentions to leave due to uncertainties about the future. This context has amplified public calls for the government to adopt a more responsive and accountable governance approach, particularly regarding climate change and rising living costs.
Responses to the Cabinet expansion have been mixed. Supporters argue that a larger Cabinet may enhance the government’s ability to effectively address these critical national issues, while critics, including former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry, caution that this move could introduce unnecessary bureaucracy and detract from tackling poverty and living costs.
Despite the surrounding controversies, there remains a hopeful perspective that these political changes might lead to greater transparency and enhanced governance. Observers express optimism that the government can realign its priorities and leverage this opportunity for reform, fostering a more unified approach to addressing the diverse needs of all Fijians.
In summary, while Prime Minister Rabuka’s decision raises significant questions about governance and adherence to coalition agreements, it also presents a vital opportunity for renewal within Fiji’s political framework. The hope is that through thoughtful navigation of these changes, the government can emerge more responsive and better equipped to tackle the pressing challenges faced by its citizens, ultimately paving the way for a stronger and more collaborative future.
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