The complexities of running a coalition government have been a significant challenge for the Government.
In an interview with reports following the last parliamentary sitting, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka acknowledged the inherent difficulties of coalition administration.
Drawing parallels to recent collapses of coalition governments in countries like France and New Zealand, Mr Rabuka said the task of leading a coalition is difficult.
“Running a coalition government is not an easy task,” Mr Rabuka said.
“We’ve had our ups and downs individually as ministers and faced challenges working with a civil service we did not appoint.”
He praised the commitment of coalition members, including the National Federation Party (NFP) and SODELPA, in working together under the leadership of the People’s Alliance.
“I pay tribute to every component member of the coalition government — NFP, SODELPA, and the People’s Alliance — for coming this far and finishing two years,” he said.
The Prime Minister noted that past political appointments in the civil service had created obstacles for the current government, citing instances of divided loyalty among officials.
“Some civil servants were politically appointed, so their allegiance and loyalty naturally lay with the authorities who appointed them,” Mr Rabuka said.
He also addressed recent controversies within the Ministry of Education, where certain civil servants were reassigned due to leadership issues.
Despite these challenges, Mr Rabuka emphasised the importance of fairness to all civil servants, stressing their right to a career path and an opportunity to retire at the appropriate age.
“Our country has invested significantly in their education and training, and we must fully utilise their skills,” he added.
When asked about maintaining coalition unity amid recent controversies involving the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), Mr Rabuka reaffirmed his confidence in the coalition’s stability.
“First, we must understand our objectives and what we’re trying to achieve,” he said.
“This means setting aside sectarian interests or party positions. Even our party administrators understand the importance of coalition success. We cannot return to voters and say only our party succeeded.”
