Tevita Boseiwaqa, the acting CEO of the Suva City Council, has been identified as Fiji’s highest-paid municipal leader, with an annual salary of $159,386. This figure was disclosed by the Minister for Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, during a recent session in Parliament that updated the salary details of acting CEOs across various municipal councils.
The salary of Mr. Boseiwaqa is determined by the Higher Salaries Commission, and his role is part of a structure where certain councils, including Suva City Council, Nasinu Town Council, and Tavua Town Council, are currently managed by special administrators serving as acting CEOs. Salaries for these acting positions are calculated based on a formula that includes 95 percent of the difference between the salary of the Special Administrator and the base salary of the CEO.
For comparison, Felix Magnus, the acting CEO of Nasinu Town Council, earns an annual salary of $79,549.80, while Sireli Korovulavula, the acting CEO of Tavua Town Council, currently receives a $12,000 allowance, awaiting full salary approval from the Higher Salaries Commission. In total, the three councils are spending approximately $183,055.66 on acting CEO salaries, with an additional allocation of $26,252 for allowances related to official vehicles, mobile phones, internet, and travel expenses incurred during official duties.
Minister Nalumisa also provided clarity regarding the executive chair positions, explaining that these roles have not been established, as the ministry has not sanctioned the creation of new roles within municipal council structures.
This disclosure highlights the financial transparency of government roles and offers insight into the management of municipal councils in Fiji. It is important as it demonstrates accountability in public service, ensuring citizens are informed about how their municipal leaders are compensated.
In summary, while the salaries may seem significant, the ongoing scrutiny and legislative process reflect a commitment to oversight and fiscal responsibility within local governance in Fiji. As these councils continue to adapt under temporary leadership, there is an opportunity for future growth and restructuring that may better serve the communities they represent.
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