In a dramatic cabinet reshuffle, Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced the dismissal of Minister for Women Lynda Tabuya, appointing Sashi Kiran as her successor.
The move, which Rabuka stated was made “in the best interest of the people we serve,” comes amidst swirling controversy surrounding a private video allegedly involving Tabuya.
Rabuka took to social media to confirm the decision:
“Hon. Lynda Tabuya has been dismissed as Minister for Women, effective immediately. Hon. Sashi Kiran will be sworn in as the new Minister. This decision was made in the best interest of the people we serve.”
Kiran, elected to Fiji’s Parliament in December 2022 as a National Federation Party member, served as Assistant Minister for Women, Children, and Poverty Alleviation in the PAP/NFP/SODELPA Coalition Government.
She is a respected figure in grassroots development, is the founder and CEO of FRIEND (Foundation for Rural Integrated Enterprises & Development). Established in the wake of Fiji’s 2000 political crisis, FRIEND has championed economic empowerment for underserved communities, focusing on women, youth, and people with disabilities.
FRIEND’s initiatives, including its long-selling line of supermarket chutneys and other rural products, have transformed local livelihoods and earned recognition across the Pacific region.
Kiran’s expertise in fostering sustainable development and community resilience has positioned her as a prominent voice on regional and international platforms, including her contributions to the Commonwealth Foundation and other global NGOs.
The reshuffle follows allegations tied to a private video involving Tabuya, which was circulated online. PM Rabuka has requested an explanation from Minister Lynda Tabuya regarding a viral explicit video allegedly involving her.
Tabuya condemned the incident as a grave invasion of privacy and a form of cyber exploitation, reaffirming her commitment to addressing such issues. In a statement, she emphasised the need for stronger digital ethics and announced legal action against those responsible for distributing the video.
“There is nothing scandalous or immoral about sharing private content between consenting adults,” Tabuya stated, adding that the unauthorised circulation of such material is a crime. She vowed to continue advocating for the rights and well-being of Fiji’s women, children, and vulnerable groups.
The reshuffle and the surrounding controversy have sparked widespread public discourse, with many calling for enhanced protections against online harassment and greater accountability in leadership. For now, all eyes are on Kiran as she steps into a challenging but pivotal role, bringing her wealth of experience to the national stage.
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