Opposition Member of Parliament, Premila Kumar, has expressed significant concerns regarding the Prime Minister’s recent decision to take on additional responsibilities by adding Immigration and Police to his already extensive portfolio. In her statement, Kumar questioned the rationale behind consolidating more power within a single office when the Coalition Government has a substantial number of ministers available to share these critical roles.
Kumar argued that with every other MP in the Coalition already holding ministerial or assistant ministerial roles, the responsibilities could be more effectively distributed. She emphasized that delegating these portfolios would not only foster specialized oversight but also enhance accountability in each sector.
She pointed out that effective governance requires dedicated leadership focused on results. The Prime Minister’s management of pivotal areas like Foreign Affairs, Climate Change, and now Immigration and Police may lead to distractions, compromising his ability to respond to the unique challenges facing each ministry. Kumar noted that it is impractical for any individual, regardless of their abilities, to efficiently oversee such a wide array of demanding portfolios.
Highlighting the recent decision to split the Ministry of Defence for better management, she criticized the trend of creating administrative complexities without tangible service improvements. Kumar reiterated that Fiji is grappling with urgent issues such as the rising cost of living, healthcare system challenges, and law enforcement concerns, which require immediate attention and a team-oriented approach.
She urged the Prime Minister to focus on empowering his ministers to ensure that each ministry receives the necessary attention to deliver effectively. Kumar stressed the importance of delegation, accountability, and tangible outcomes in governance and called for a shift away from excessive concentration of power. She also noted the necessity of addressing underperformance among certain officials, urging immediate action to prevent taxpayer dollars from being wasted.
This situation presents an opportunity for the Prime Minister to reassess his leadership style and cultivate a more collaborative atmosphere within his government. By trusting his ministers to take ownership of their respective portfolios, there is potential for a more responsive and effective administration, ultimately benefiting the citizens of Fiji.
In summary, Kumar’s remarks highlight the need for better distribution of responsibilities within the government to address pressing national issues effectively. This could foster a more efficient and accountable governance structure, reflecting a commitment to the needs of the people.
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