The Public Service Commission (PSC) chairman, Luke Rokovada, has stated that Selina Kuruleca’s transition from the Education Ministry to the position of Permanent Secretary for Justice marks “just the beginning” of further changes within the ministry. In a recent interview in Nadi, Rokovada emphasized the necessity of this reshuffle, clarifying that it was not related to performance issues or any directive from the Prime Minister.
“The commission made the decision, with the agreement of the Prime Minister,” he explained, emphasizing that all appointments and transfers for Permanent Secretaries are decided collaboratively with the Prime Minister’s input.
Ratu Meli Nacuva will assume the role of Acting Permanent Secretary for Education while still serving as Permanent Secretary for Youth and Sports. Rokovada highlighted Nacuva’s extensive background in public administration and education policy as beneficial in enhancing the quality and accessibility of education.
When pressed about the motivations behind the changes, Rokovada referred to it as a standard reshuffle, stating, “It’s just time for some of them to move around, enjoy a new environment, and contribute to their new organizations.” He added that the Permanent Secretary for Justice position is new, and since the search for a suitable candidate through advertising did not yield results, Kuruleca was deemed well-suited for the position.
Addressing concerns regarding Kuruleca’s familiarity with the justice sector, Rokovada expressed confidence in the commission’s decision, stating, “The commission believes this new assignment will further leverage her skills and experience.” He also indicated that an announcement for an Acting Permanent Secretary for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and the Sugar Industry would be forthcoming, following the resignation of Yogesh Karan.