19 Sep 2005

Fiji MP recently released from jail is poised to return to cabinet

7:28 pm on 19 September 2005

Fiji's recently released former lands minister Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu is to return to the cabinet.

Ratu Naiqama completed his eight-month jail sentence for his role in the Labasa army mutiny last week, having served all of it extramurally except for the first 11 days.

Ratu Naiqama resumed his seat in parliament today when the prime minister, Laisenia Qarase, announced his return to cabinet.

Mr Qarase did not say which portfolio Ratu Naiqama would get but Radio Legend says it is likely to be one of the three held by the prime minister.

Radio Legend says Ratu Naiqama's return to cabinet ranks would take the number of ministers in the government to 29.

Ratu Naiqama holds the highest chiefly title on the second island of Vanua Levu, that of Tui Cakau.