Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that he will not accept a salary increase despite taking on multiple additional responsibilities after the resignation of Manoa Kamikamica. Kamikamica, who held the positions of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications, stepped down voluntarily due to serious legal challenges. He faces ongoing charges from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) related to perjury and providing false information.
In addressing the situation, Rabuka stated that Fiji can function effectively without one of its three deputy prime ministers and emphasized that salary is not linked to portfolio assignments. He will temporarily manage Kamikamica’s former roles, underscoring the necessity of maintaining leadership stability during this turbulent period.
Although Kamikamica has returned to Fiji and completed his final day in office, he will continue to serve as a Parliament member and the deputy leader of the People’s Alliance party. Rabuka expressed his support for Kamikamica as he works to clear his name, noting that the results of the legal proceedings will be pivotal in determining Kamikamica’s future in politics.
This resignation comes at a time when discussions about political integrity and accountability are becoming increasingly prominent within Fiji’s governance framework. The situation presents an opportunity for potential reforms, as there is a growing public demand for transparency and responsible leadership.
The events surrounding Kamikamica’s departure reflect a broader desire among citizens for a political environment grounded in openness and accountability. This upheaval may inspire necessary changes to Fiji’s political institutions, bringing about a hopeful pathway toward enhanced governance in the future.