A prominent developer in Nadi has expressed deep disappointment in the Coalition Government. Abbas Ali, the owner of Fantasy Island, has openly criticized what he perceives as the misleading nature of supposedly independent institutions and their roles.
Ali referred to the current turmoil concerning the appointment of the new Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner, Barbara Malimali, as laughable. Malimali was under investigation by FICAC, and the day before her appointment was revealed, FICAC officials conducted a search at the Electoral Commission office where she had previously been chairperson. The status of her position at the Electoral Commission remains unclear, as the Constitutional Offices Commission secretariat has yet to confirm her resignation.
With a background as a former civil servant, Ali has spent over 30 years investing in more than $90 million worth of projects on Fantasy Island. He urged the Government to take immediate action to rectify its shortcomings or risk collapse. “There’s no hope at all,” he stated, emphasizing that little progress has been made since the election.
He criticized the Government for self-preservation instead of addressing the citizens’ needs, warning that the country’s future remains bleak unless priorities shift. Ali expressed concern about the issues faced by ministers and when they would begin to address the challenges facing the nation as a whole.
He urged the Government to realign its focus towards the public, warning that a decline in public confidence could lead to significant consequences. “If they neglect the people, trouble is ahead,” he said. He reminded the Prime Minister and his Cabinet to stay attentive to the citizens’ voices or risk facing a fate similar to that of the FijiFirst government, which was removed due to public discontent.
Ali’s disillusionment with the Coalition Government, now in its second year, is clear as he stated, “A Coalition Government will never work for Fiji.” When asked for his perspective, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Biman Prasad acknowledged the public’s right to voice their opinions and criticism regarding the Government, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to maintaining an open dialogue.