PM Rabuka defends Cabinet expansion amid criticism

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has defended the appointment of two new assistant ministers, saying the positions were already budgeted for and would help expand Government portfolios.

Mr Rabuka announced that Independent Members of Parliament Shalen Kumar and Sachida Nand, both former FijiFirst Members of Parliament, had been appointed as Assistant Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Assistant Minister for Public Enterprises respectively.

He said the appointments would strengthen the Government’s work in key areas of national development.

The swearing-in ceremony for the two was conducted by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu at the State House yesterday.

However, Fiji Labour Party’s Northern-based politician Surendra Lal described the move as unnecessary and a burden on taxpayers.

“This appointment raises serious questions,” Mr Lal said.

“Why is the Government trying to increase the Cabinet size? The current multi-ethnic ministry has sufficient manpower and does not require an additional ministry.”

Mr Lal, who contested the 2018 and 2022 General Elections, claimed the decision was politically motivated and aimed at strengthening Mr Rabuka’s support base ahead of possible constitutional amendments.

“Our thoughts are that the Prime Minister is trying to build his support for the Constitution amendment,” he said.

He added that funds used for additional salaries could have been directed towards pressing issues such as combating the illicit drug crisis, improving health infrastructure, and addressing teachers’ concerns about low pay.

“This Government is serving its members above the people,” Mr Lal said. “Teachers deserve to be paid well. That money could have gone into health and education.”

Mr Lal also cautioned that frequent ministerial appointments could raise concerns among international observers.