In a historic event, the establishment of seven assistant ministers’ positions was formalised at an oath ceremony yesterday which will support and strengthen the work of Nauru's cabinet and government.
The seven appointed assistant ministers were called upon to step forward to take the Oath before Registrar of the Supreme Court Filimone Jitoko at the ceremony in front of the government office.
President Baron Waqa said this is “an historic day for the Republic” and one that will “ensure that Government businesses are addressed adequately, efficiently and competently.”
“I do not expect the tasks ahead to be smooth sailing. Issues will befall the Assistant Ministers that will prove challenging, tempting and sometimes threatening. To the Assistant Ministers, you will all need to stay the course and prove your worth to the country and to the people of Nauru,” President Waqa said.
Lionel Aingimea offered his remarks on behalf of the assistant ministers.
“As assistant ministers we don’t envy our task… but we take on that challenge knowing that it is a challenge that is to be met in honesty, in truth and with a strength of resolve that must never fail,” Mr Aingimea said.
The Assistant Ministers Bill 2016 was tabled and passed in parliament yesterday (19 July) bringing into force the new arrangement.
Another bill to amend the Constitution for an additional minister was also tabled yesterday. The Constitutional Amendment Bill 2016 will sit for 90 days before debate on the bill resumes. The bill will require two-thirds majority of the members in order to pass. If passed the addition of a minister will bring the total number of cabinet ministers to seven.
Lionel Aingimea will be assistant minister for the Public Service, Justice & Border Control, and Multicultural Affairs.
Russ Kun is assigned Finance & Sustainable Development, Commerce, Industry & Environment, and Climate Change.
Ranin Akua will take on the Nauru Phosphate Royalties Trust, Nauru Port Authority, and Nauru Fisheries & Marine Resources Authority.
Tawaki Kam will assist in Health & Medical Services, RONPhos, and Nauru Rehabilitation Corporation.
Vodrick Detsiogo is assigned Education, Transport, and Nauru Air Corporation.
Jaden Dogireiy is assisting with Home Affairs, National Emergency Services, and Nauru Utilities Corporation.
Jason Bingham Agir is assigned Telecommunication & Media, Sports, and Eigigu Holdings Corporation.