There is a pressing need to assure citizens of their fundamental rights and freedoms, not merely through rhetoric but through tangible actions. This is especially critical as the public and investors have been adapting to the new political environment, aiming to embrace what has been described as newfound freedom.
During the launch of the National Development Plan at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica emphasized this point. He acknowledged that there remains substantial work ahead to ensure the nation operates as a true democracy, particularly in regards to reviewing the Constitution to better reflect the public’s will.
Kamikamica outlined that the Coalition Government’s primary objective in its initial year has been to restore freedom, rebuild confidence, and foster trust among various communities, while promoting mutual respect.
Addressing the challenges of public finances and the need to decrease national debt have been identified as top priorities for the government. He stated that stabilizing public finances is crucial for creating the necessary fiscal space to implement development policies effectively. The government has also moved swiftly to secure jobs for civil servants by eliminating all fixed-term contracts.
In the past two years, the administration has focused resources on programs designed to ensure citizens have access to essential services such as clean drinking water, improved drainage systems, upgraded rural roads, and enhanced healthcare and education. While the government continues to make progress, there are still areas lacking access to these basic necessities.
The Deputy Prime Minister expressed optimism that all citizens, whether at home or abroad, will eventually gain access to essential services in both urban and rural settings, as these are inherently recognized as their human rights.