Nand, Kumar to be sworn in tomorrow as Assistant Ministers

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced the appointment of two new Assistant Ministers, who will be sworn in by President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere tomorrow, Friday, October 3, 2025.

Sachida Nand, an independent MP and former member of the deregistered FijiFirst party, has been appointed Assistant Minister for Public Enterprises, while fellow former FijiFirst member Shalen Kumar will serve as Assistant Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs.

In addition, Aliki Bia, currently Assistant Minister for Information, has been reassigned as Assistant Minister for Youth and Sports.

Mr Rabuka said the appointments bring valuable experience to government and reflect its commitment to supporting multi-ethnic affairs, public enterprises, and youth development.

Mr Nand, a former CEO of Fiji Cooperative Dairy, has extensive experience in governance and enterprise management, which the Prime Minister said will help strengthen accountability and growth in Fiji’s public enterprises.

Mr Kumar, meanwhile, brings what Mr Rabuka described as a “deep understanding of cultural sensitivities and nuances,” positioning him to foster inclusion and cohesion among Fiji’s multi-ethnic communities.

Mr Bia’s reassignment, the Prime Minister said his experience in community engagement and information will be key in driving youth development under the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

The three Assistant Ministers will formally take office tomorrow afternoon.