Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has acknowledged the need for effective communication within the Coalition Government, especially with the public, following recent events that highlighted the government’s fragility. In his budget response, Mr. Rabuka reminded that he had warned during the elections about the formidable obstacles in office, which have since been proven true.
Despite the challenges, Mr. Rabuka stated that the government remains committed to its responsibilities. “We have had our setbacks and made errors; that happens with all governments,” he said. He expressed optimism about Fiji’s future, describing a vision of a new Fiji, and noted that although the country has been wounded, those wounds can be healed through collective effort starting in Parliament.
Mr. Rabuka pointed out that the people of Fiji are awakening to a compelling truth of unity despite differences in language, customs, and traditions. He acknowledged recent claims that the government was “falling down on the job” amidst the usual controversies and opinion exchanges in a democracy.
“No democratic government is without accusations of incompetence or poor management,” he remarked. Mr. Rabuka reiterated that he had anticipated significant challenges when the government took office in 2022 and noted that overcoming these obstacles would take time beyond the first 18 months. However, he assured that progress is being made in the country’s virtual reconstruction.
He also thanked the Leader of the Opposition for accepting these challenges and emphasized the need for more effective communication with the public.