The recent appointment of three new ministers and three assistant ministers by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has fueled public frustration, particularly regarding potential financial implications for taxpayers already facing economic hardships. In response to the backlash, Prime Minister Rabuka defended his actions, asserting that the restructure was essential for improving government efficiency.

He explained that many of his current cabinet members were overloaded with responsibilities, which hindered their ability to manage their portfolios effectively. “I’ve been overloaded,” Rabuka admitted, emphasizing that by redistributing some of his responsibilities, he aimed to ensure that each minister can devote focused attention to their specific areas.

Criticism of this cabinet expansion has not been limited to public backlash. Opposition figures, including MP Premila Kumar, labeled the reshuffle as a “sham,” pointing out that the Cabinet now consists of 34 members. This is a significant increase compared to earlier commitments Rabuka made regarding governmental size and efficiency. Kumar’s concerns included possible diversion of funds from essential services and development programs, given the high living costs that many Fijians are currently enduring.

Despite the criticism, Rabuka expressed optimism about the restructuring’s potential benefits. He assured the public that the financial aspects of these appointments would be managed within the existing 2024/2025 National Budget, and Minister of Finance Professor Biman Prasad confirmed that existing resources would be utilized, reportedly mitigating any additional financial strain.

As the government gears up for its remaining term, there is hope that this cabinet expansion will lead to a more responsive and effective administration. Should these new appointments enhance accountability and service delivery, they could help address some pressing issues faced by the Fijian people. The ongoing scrutiny and dialogue surrounding these changes could potentially spur necessary reforms, aligning government actions more closely with citizen expectations.

In summary, while the expansion of the Cabinet has sparked controversy, it carries the hopeful potential for reinvigorated focus on governance and public service, with the government aiming to navigate its challenges more effectively in the future. The successful execution of this strategy may ultimately influence public support as Fiji approaches upcoming elections, fostering a renewed commitment to addressing citizens’ needs.