Unity Fiji’s leader, Savenaca Narube, has raised significant concerns about the recent cabinet expansion by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, asserting that the appointments of new ministers and assistant ministers will cost taxpayers approximately $3 million. Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad has confirmed that this amount will be sourced from existing budget allocations.

Narube questioned the motives behind the reshuffle, stating that it reflects the Prime Minister’s focus on personal political survival rather than genuine governance improvements. He pointed out that the cabinet now comprises 34 members, many of whom were not elected by the coalition parties, which raises questions about the legitimacy of their appointment. He characterized the reshuffle as an attempt to justify an already bloated cabinet under the guise of enhancing efficiency and redistributing workloads.

The expansion has ignited public dissatisfaction amidst ongoing economic challenges in Fiji. Other opposition leaders, including Premila Kumar and Mahendra Chaudhry, echoed Narube’s criticisms, condemning the increased cabinet size as unnecessary and a diversion of resources that could be better utilized for essential public services.

Despite the backlash, the government defends its actions as crucial for improving governance and addressing the overwhelming responsibilities of current ministers. Prime Minister Rabuka has argued that the reshuffle is intended to create a more focused approach to critical societal issues.

In summary, while the cabinet expansion has sparked significant debate over its financial implications and necessity, it also presents an opportunity for potential improvements in governance. The hope remains that with vigilant public oversight and effective management, these changes could foster a more accountable administration that better aligns with the needs of the Fijian populace during these challenging times. Continuous public engagement is essential for ensuring that governance reflects the genuine concerns of citizens and drives meaningful reforms.