New Fiji Minister for Women sworn in as predecessor is sacked

In a significant cabinet reshuffle, Sashi Kiran has been sworn in as Fiji's new Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection.

Kiran's appointment follows Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka's dismissal of her predecessor, Lynda Tabuya, due to concerns about her conduct.

On Thursday, the Fiji Sun reported that Tabuya had chosen to forgive everyone sharing her now widely circulated nude video and that she remained committed to carrying out her ministerial duties.

“To those behind this attempt to discredit me, I offer my forgiveness, as Jesus taught us,” Tabuya said.

“However, I also trust that the law will address such acts of character assassination appropriately, as we must all be accountable for our actions."

But by the end of the day, Rabuka announced in a statement that “in light of the recent events concerning the conduct of the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Honourable Lynda Tabuya, and in consideration of the oath she has taken as a minister and standards expected of any Minister, I have decided to exercise the power conferred upon me by Section 92(3)(b) of the Constitution, to dismiss her as a Minister, with immediate effect".

Tabuya will stay on as a Member of Parliament.

“This is not a decision I have taken lightly, but one that is necessary in the best interest of the people that we serve,” Rabuka said.

While Kiran previously served as the Assistant Minister under Tabuya, she now steps into the role “with a wealth of experience in social work and advocacy,” according to a government statement.

Fiji’s new Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, left, and her predecessor Lynda Tabuya. Photo/Fiji Government

Ratu Naiqama presided over the swearing-in ceremony on Friday at the State House.

As the founder of FRIEND Fiji (Foundation for Rural Integrated Enterprises and Development), Kiran has dedicated her career to improving the lives of vulnerable communities through various socio-economic initiatives.

Her extensive background in social services positions her well to address the challenges facing women and children in Fiji.

Prominent government officials, including Prime Minister Rabuka and Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad, attended the swearing-in ceremony.

The government says Kiran's leadership is expected to bring renewed focus to the ministry's efforts in advocating for women's rights and child protection.