Former finance minister and leader of the National Federation Party Professor Biman Prasad says he would like to play a bigger role in discussions on key national issues but insists the decision ultimately rests with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
Speaking on The Fiji Times online portal The Lens@177, Prof Prasad said he was aware of Cabinet committee’s dealing with important matters such as fuel prices, but was not currently part of those discussions.
“I do hope that we would talk a lot more about some of these things, even though I’m not in Cabinet,” he said.
“I know there is a Cabinet committee. There is a committee on fuel, but I’m not part of that.”
Professor Prasad said as the leader of a coalition partner, he would welcome greater involvement in national decision-making.
“As a leader of a party in coalition, I would like to be more involved, but that’s the prerogative of the Prime Minister at the moment.
“If he asks me, I’m there to help.”
Despite not being directly involved in some Government discussions, Professor Prasad dismissed suggestions that he was frustrated or being sidelined.
“No, I don’t think that’s correct.
“As I said, it doesn’t stop me from articulating my views publicly, and I’ve said things, and government has done all that. So, I’m happy with that.”
Prof Prasad indicated that communication within the coalition could be strengthened.
“We have a coalition agreement that requires us to meet often and discuss common issues for the coalition and government.
“I think we could do better than what we probably are doing, but the Prime Minister is the Prime Minister. He’s got lots of other things on his plate every day, every morning, every afternoon.”
