Opposition MP Premila Kumar has expressed serious concerns regarding the Prime Minister’s decision to take on additional portfolios, specifically Immigration and Police, amidst an already extensive list of responsibilities. In her statement, Kumar questioned the confidence the Government has in its own collective talent if so much power is being concentrated in one office.
Kumar highlighted that every MP in the Coalition Government, except for one, already holds a ministerial or assistant ministerial role. She argued that with such a large group of ministers, responsibilities could be distributed more effectively. Assigning these portfolios to other ministers would not only allow for greater focus but also enhance oversight and accountability in their respective areas.
Emphasizing the importance of dedicated leadership for effective governance, Kumar warned that handling critical portfolios—including Foreign Affairs, Climate Change, Environment, Civil Service, Information, Public Enterprises, as well as the newly added Immigration and Police—could lead the Prime Minister to become overextended. She pointed out that each ministry requires thorough attention, diligent planning, and the capacity to react promptly to emerging issues.
Kumar referenced the restructuring of the Ministry of Defence into separate portfolios and the division of the Attorney General’s role from the Ministry of Justice as examples of administrative complexity that do not necessarily yield improved service delivery.
She noted the pressing issues that Fiji is currently facing, such as a rising cost of living, challenges within the healthcare system, drug-related problems, and concerns regarding law and order, coupled with a significant brain drain in essential sectors like education and health. Kumar argued that the Prime Minister’s focus on consolidating power detracts from addressing these pressing matters effectively.
Kumar called for a shift in approach, urging for the empowerment of the broader governmental team to focus on their designated portfolios, ensuring each ministry receives the attention required to deliver results.
She critiqued the current excessive concentration of power, stating that good governance relies on delegation, accountability, and results, and urged the Prime Minister to trust his team more and allow them greater ownership of their responsibilities. Additionally, she emphasized that some underperforming ministers and assistant ministers should be relieved of their duties to ensure taxpayer funds are used effectively and that urgent national issues are prioritized.
This call for greater accountability and delegation reflects a desire for a more effective governance structure that is responsive to the needs of the citizens. By fostering a sense of trust and collaboration among ministers, there’s a hopeful perspective that Fiji can tackle its pressing challenges more effectively.
In summary, MP Premila Kumar raises critical concerns over the Prime Minister’s accumulation of ministerial portfolios, advocating for better distribution of responsibilities among the MPs in order to enhance governance and address pressing national issues more effectively.
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