Seruiratu questions Cabinet expansion

Leader of Opposition (LoP) Inia Seruiratu has criticised Government for prioritising its political aims with the recent Cabinet expansion at the expense of the people.

Last Friday, seven Group of Nine (G9) Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) were capped ministers and assistant ministers.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka defended the inclusion of G9, into his Cabinet, clarifying that such a decision was his prerogative.

“The inclusion of the G9, now part of the Coalition, has now given him more political power which I only hope will be used to pursue matters of national interest as opposed to short-term political gains and survival,” Mr Seruiratu said.

“The Coalition government has made its decision known and has supported the PM in his so-called reshuffle,” he said.

“But it comes at a time when cost of living is a big issue throughout our communities.

“It’s obvious that Government has placed priority on its political aims at the expense of the taxpayers despite the Minister for Finance’s efforts to minimize wastage and economize its efforts.”

Stronger Opposition

Mr Seruiratu said the remaining 16 Opposition members would be steadfast in carrying out their duties.

He said there would be stronger critics when needed in Parliament.

“On the other hand, Section 78 of our Constitution is quite clear on in terms of who can and cannot be in Opposition,” he said.

“I had expected the Speaker to remove them from the Opposition as members of the Standing Committees and change the seating plan of Parliament but did not. Will that be changed now?

“While I congratulate the members for taking their oaths of office on Friday, I assure all Fijians that we in the G16 Opposition bloc will continue our role as expected of us in upholding our parliamentary roles and responsibilities, democratic principles, values and good governance.”

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