Government reshuffles permanent secretaries across key ministries

The Government has moved to reassign several permanent secretaries in a senior public service reshuffle approved by the Prime Minister, the Public Service Commission (PSC) has confirmed.

In a statement today, the PSC said the changes affect key portfolios including Commerce, Fisheries, Women and Social Protection, Justice, and Information, with some appointments made on an acting or interim basis.

Peni Sikivou, the Permanent Secretary for National Strategic Planning, Development and Statistics, has been appointed acting Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Business Development from January 5. He replaces Shaheen Ali, who has completed his contract.

The PSC said Sikivou will act in the role for approximately three to four months until a substantive appointment is made.

Meanwhile, Atelaite Rokosuka, Permanent Secretary for Fisheries and Forestry, has been reassigned as Head of the Fiji Learning Institute for Public Service (FLIPS), effective January 12.

Permanent Secretary for Women, Children and Social Protection Eseta Nadakuitavuki will move to the Ministry of Information as its Permanent Secretary from January 19.

In a further adjustment, Selina Kuruleca, the substantive Permanent Secretary for Justice, will assume responsibility as acting Permanent Secretary for Women, Children and Social Protection on a part-time basis from January 19, while retaining her justice portfolio.

The PSC said the reassignments were made with the agreement of the Prime Minister and were aimed at ensuring continuity of leadership and effective delivery across the public service.