Fiji’s Speaker of Parliament Filimone Jitoko today announced changes to parliamentary committees, also confirming that Alvick Maharaj has withdrawn his appeal against FijiFirst’s deregistration and will serve as an Independent for the remainder of the term.
Maharaj, formerly of FijiFirst, has opted to remain in Parliament as an Independent MP after withdrawing his appeal before the Fijian Electoral Commission. He has also pledged his support for the group led by the Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu.
Meanwhile, as a result of the Group of 9 Bloc moving to join the Coalition Government, the revised Standing and Select Committees composition now includes three Government Members and two Opposition Members on each of the six Standing Committees.
The changes, effective from 3 February 2025, are as follows:
- Economic Affairs: Semi Koroilavesau replaces Aliki Bia; Ketan Lal as alternate.
- Social Affairs: Parveen Bala replaces Ioane Naivalurua; Shalen Kumar as alternate.
- Natural Resources: Vijay Nath replaces Taito Rokomatu; Joseph Nand as alternate.
- Foreign Affairs and Defence: Virendra Lal replaces Viliame Naupoto; Ketan Lal as alternate.
- Justice, Law and Human Rights: Faiyaz Koya replaces Mosese Bulitavu; Joseph Nand as alternate.
- Public Accounts: Hem Chand replaces Naisa Tuinaceva; Shalen Kumar as alternate.
Viam Pillay has been appointed to the House Committee, replacing Tuinaceva, while Premila Kumar takes Ratu Josaia Niudamu’s place on the Privileges Committee. No changes have been made to the Standing Orders Committee.
Jitoko said the reshuffle was intended to ensure balanced representation and effective governance.
