Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced key appointments in his Cabinet, aiming to improve governance and representation in the Fijian government. Sachida Nand has been named the Assistant Minister for Public Enterprises, and Shalen Kumar will take on the role of Assistant Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs. Both are scheduled to be sworn in by the President tomorrow.
The Prime Minister has also reassigned Aliki Bia from Assistant Minister for Information to Assistant Minister for Youth and Sports. These appointments underline his government’s commitment to inclusivity, youth development, and accountability in public enterprises.
Sachida Nand, previously the CEO of Fiji Cooperative Dairy, brings a wealth of experience in governance and is expected to focus on enhancing transparency and growth within Fiji’s public sectors. Shalen Kumar, recognized for his dedication to community engagement and understanding of Fiji’s diverse cultural landscape, is set to play a pivotal role in promoting social cohesion in the multi-ethnic nation.
Both Nand and Kumar, originally elected to Parliament as members of the FijiFirst party, switched allegiance earlier this year to support Ioane Naivalurua’s leadership after withdrawing support for Leader of Opposition, Inia Seruiratu. Their new roles reflect a broader trend toward collaborative governance in Fiji, aiming to tackle national issues with innovative strategies.
This Cabinet reshuffle aligns with previous changes that included the appointments of Lynda Tabuya and Tomasi Tunabuna, which sought to inject fresh perspectives and strengthen operational capacity in leadership. By diversifying the Cabinet and incorporating members from various political backgrounds, the government aims to enhance its responsiveness to public needs, paving the way for a more inclusive and effective governance structure.
As Fiji faces its ongoing political challenges, these significant appointments represent a hopeful shift towards addressing critical national issues while fostering a collaborative environment conducive to overcoming the nation’s obstacles.