Seven Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Group of Nine (G9) are set to take their oaths today as Ministers and Assistant Ministers in the Coalition Government. The swearing-in ceremony will occur at 11 am at the State House, overseen by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka confirmed that three G9 MPs will be appointed to full ministerial positions. He noted, “Yes, I can confirm that G9 MPs will be sworn in today – some as ministers and others as assistant ministers.”
The G9 MPs assuming ministerial roles include:
– Ioane Naivalurua: Minister for Policing
– Viliame Naupoto: Minister for Immigration
– Mosese Bulitavu: Minister for Climate Change
Additionally, four G9 MPs will take on the roles of assistant ministers:
– Naisa Tuinaceva: Assistant Minister for Transport
– Josaia Niudamu: Assistant Minister for Justice
– Penioni Ravunawa: Assistant Minister for Health
– Aliki Bia: Assistant Minister for Information
Notably, two G9 MPs, Alipate Tuicolo and Taito Rokomatu, will not hold ministerial positions. Pio Tikoduadua will retain his position as Minister for Defence.
This development signifies a major shift in Fiji’s political landscape, as the G9, formed in July 2024 following the deregistration of the FijiFirst party, has broken away from the Opposition. Their entry into government positions introduces a new dynamic since the 2013 Constitution does not provide specific guidelines for the integration of crossbench MPs.
Prime Minister Rabuka has expressed his readiness to collaborate with the G9, while Attorney-General Graham Leung referred to the situation as “uncharted territory,” suggesting that the absence of prohibitive clauses in the Constitution could lead to promising outcomes.
The political implications of this move highlight the evolving nature of alliances within the government, as the Constitution mandates the election of a Leader of the Opposition for MPs outside the ruling party. However, it lacks clear protocols for the inclusion of opposition-aligned MPs within the governing framework. Observers note that Rabuka’s decision to incorporate G9 MPs may bolster his coalition amid ongoing discussions about key governmental appointments.
This situation presents a hopeful opportunity for political cooperation and collaboration in Fiji, potentially fostering a more inclusive government structure that benefits the public as different voices work together in governance.
In summary, the swearing-in of G9 MPs marks a pivotal point in Fiji’s political landscape, setting the stage for new alliances and governance structures.
Leave a comment