Former Permanent Secretary to the Office of the Prime Minister, Jioji Kotobalavu, has expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s decision to appoint Opposition MPs to key ministerial positions, calling it a “smart move.” This innovative approach is anticipated to significantly enhance leadership within the People’s Coalition Government.

Kotobalavu highlighted that the Prime Minister’s authority to make such appointments is grounded in Section 92 of the 2013 Constitution, which grants him the power to appoint ministers and assign their responsibilities. What sets this reshuffle apart is the inclusion of Opposition MPs, which is not a common practice in parliamentary systems where ministerial roles are typically held by members of the ruling party. This maneuver reflects a departure from tradition and points to a more inclusive governance strategy.

The appointed MPs are categorized as “cross-bench MPs,” a designation approved by the Speaker of Parliament, legitimizing their involvement in government roles. Kotobalavu asserted that this restructuring is not only constitutionally permissible but could drive substantial positive outcomes for the government’s functionality, allowing it to serve citizens more effectively.

He believes that this pragmatic initiative could bolster the People’s Coalition Government’s operational capability and enhance Rabuka’s leadership within both his party and the government as they approach the final two years of their term. The reshuffle includes plans for introducing Assistant Ministers to essential departments like Public Works, Justice, and Health, which aims to optimize resource allocation and improve service delivery.

Kotobalavu’s endorsement of this reshuffle signals a hopeful outlook for Fiji’s political landscape, suggesting that such cooperative strategies may lead to improved governance and, ultimately, a better public service experience. It emphasizes a shift towards broader collaboration across party lines, positioning the coalition government to effectively navigate upcoming challenges. With these changes, there is optimism that the administration will enhance its ability to meet the diverse needs of the Fijian populace.