Cabinet reshuffle takes effect today

A Cabinet reshuffle announced by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka last month takes effect today, bringing changes across several key government portfolios.

The reshuffle, announced on December 16, involves a series of ministerial reassignments within the Coalition Government.

Under the changes, Sakiasi Ditoka has been appointed Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, while Mosese Bulitavu takes over as Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management.

Lynda Tabuya has been appointed Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change.

Charan Jeath Singh will now oversee Public Enterprises, Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Culture, Heritage and Arts.

Ifereimi Vasu has assumed responsibility as Minister for iTaukei Affairs, which includes oversight of iTaukei culture, heritage and arts.

Tomasi Tunabuna has been appointed Minister for Agriculture and the Sugar Industry.

Prime Minister Rabuka will continue to hold the portfolios of Civil Service and Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics.

As part of the reshuffle, responsibility for office accommodation and government housing units has been transferred to the Ministry of Public Works. The Ministry of Civil Service will retain oversight of overall office accommodation and housing policy.

Sachida Nand has also been reassigned as Assistant Minister in the Ministry of Commerce and Business Development.

The Cabinet reshuffle comes as the Coalition Government enters its fourth year in office.