Tevita Boseiwaqa, the acting chief executive officer of Suva City Council, has been identified as the highest-paid municipal leader in Fiji, with an annual salary of $159,386. This figure was disclosed by the Minister for Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, during a recent parliamentary session.
The announcement was part of a broader overview of the salaries of acting CEOs in various municipal councils across Fiji. Alongside Suva City Council, the Nasinu Town Council and Tavua Town Council are also currently managed by special administrators serving as acting CEOs.
The salary structure for acting CEOs consists of a formula that incorporates 95 percent of the difference between the Special Administrator’s salary and the base salary of a CEO. In comparison, Felix Magnus, acting CEO of Nasinu Town Council, earns $79,549.80 annually, while Sireli Korovulavula, acting CEO of Tavua Town Council, is presently on a $12,000 annual allowance, awaiting the Higher Salaries Commission’s approval for his comprehensive salary.
Collectively, the three councils are expending $183,055.66 on acting CEO salaries, with an additional $26,252 allocated for allowances related to official vehicles, mobile phones, internet, and travel for official engagements.
Minister Nalumisa also noted that positions for executive chairs, referenced in earlier inquiries, have not been established, as the ministry does not endorse the creation of new roles within municipal council frameworks.
This disclosure highlights transparency in the administration of municipal finances and reflects ongoing efforts to evaluate and clarify the pay structures of publicly appointed officials. It emphasizes the importance of accountability in governance, ensuring that public funds are managed judiciously while also recognizing the critical roles these leaders play in local government.
Overall, the situation indicates a commitment to maintaining clarity and efficiency in local governance, paving the way for potential future reforms that could enhance how public service positions are compensated and managed.
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