A prominent developer in Nadi has expressed his disillusionment with the Coalition Government. Abbas Ali, the owner of Fantasy Island, did not hold back in his criticism of what he perceives as the superficial nature of independent institutions.
Ali referred to the ongoing controversy surrounding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new Commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) as laughable. Ms. Malimali was under investigation by FICAC, and just one day prior to her appointment announcement, investigators conducted a search of the Electoral Commission office, where she had been chairperson. The status of her role at the Electoral Commission is still uncertain, with the Constitutional Offices Commission secretariat yet to confirm her resignation.
A former civil servant and educator with 26 years of teaching experience, Ali has been engaged in developing over $90 million worth of projects on Fantasy Island for more than three decades. He urged the Government to address its internal issues or risk impending failure. “No way, there is no hope at all,” he stated, emphasizing that he sees no progress since the elections.
Ali expressed concern over the government’s focus on self-preservation rather than addressing public needs. He warned that if the current trend continues, the future looks bleak for the nation. He noted that while ministers have their own challenges, it is crucial for them to prioritize the broader issues facing the country.
He appealed for the Government to realign its priorities with its manifesto, lamenting that officials seem to prioritize their own interests over those of the citizens. He cautioned that a decline in public confidence might lead to dire consequences for the Government.
Ali urged the Prime Minister and his Cabinet to remain attuned to the sentiments of the public, warning that failure to do so could result in a fate similar to that of the previous FijiFirst government. “People will voice their discontent; they will express their will on polling day,” he warned, stressing that voters expected more from the current administration.
As the three-party Coalition Government enters its second year, Ali remains skeptical about its prospects, asserting that “A Coalition Government will never work for Fiji.”
In response to Ali’s comments, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Biman Prasad acknowledged the public’s right to express opinions about the Government, asserting that they maintain an open approach and welcome constructive criticism.