Lynda Tabuya has been appointed Minister for Information in a reshuffle announced by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, marking a high-profile return to Cabinet for the outspoken People’s Alliance MP following months of internal friction and speculation over her political future.
Ms Tabuya takes over the portfolio directly from the Prime Minister, who described her as “well-suited to spearhead the government’s public relations machinery through the Ministry of Information”.
“Fijians have a right to clear, timely facts, whether they live in Suva or on an outer island,” Ms Tabuya said.
“My task is to make government information open, honest, and easy to find.”
She outlined major reforms, including weekly press briefings starting this month, a Freedom of Information roadmap with draft legislation by March 2026, and a 24/7 digital newsroom with a public portal and WhatsApp alert system.
Also in the pipeline are community outreach vans and a skills uplift program to ensure ministry spokespeople complete plain-language and fact-checking training by year-end.
On media freedom, Ms Tabuya said: “Our next job is to review any rules that still block free reporting or slow public data. We will do this side-by-side with journalists, editors, and watchdog groups.”
“A free press keeps the government accountable. My door and inbox are open. If facts are missing or late, hold us to account.”
The reshuffle also promoted Tomasi Tunabuna to Minister for Agriculture and appointed Inosi Kuridrani as Assistant Minister. Appointments take effect following today’s swearing-in by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu.
