A prominent developer in Nadi, Abbas Ali, has expressed his disillusionment with the Coalition Government. The owner of Fantasy Island sharply criticized what he described as the facade of “independent institutions” in the country.
Ali labeled the current controversy surrounding the appointment of Barbara Malimali as the new Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) Commissioner a farce. Malimali was under investigation by FICAC, and just a day before her appointment, investigators had searched her office at the Electoral Commission, where she previously served as chairperson. The situation surrounding her role at the Electoral Commission is still unclear, as the Constitutional Offices Commission secretariat has not confirmed her resignation.
Having previously worked as a civil servant and educator for over 26 years, Ali has invested more than $90 million in projects on Fantasy Island over a span of three decades. He urged the Government to rectify its issues, warning that without action, it risks imminent collapse.
“There is no hope at all,” Ali stated, reflecting on the lack of progress since the election. He criticized the government for prioritizing self-interest over public welfare, claiming that if this trend continues, the country faces a bleak future.
Ali also cautioned the Prime Minister and Cabinet to remain attentive to public sentiment, asserting that failure to do so could lead to a fate similar to that of the previous FijiFirst government. He remarked on the voters’ expectations for improvement, stating, “People will speak out; they will go after them on polling day,” emphasizing the potential for voter backlash.
With the three-party Coalition Government in its second year, Ali remains skeptical about its viability, stating firmly, “A Coalition Government will never work for Fiji.”
When Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Biman Prasad was asked for his perspective, he responded that citizens have the right to express their views and criticisms of the Government, underscoring the administration’s commitment to openness and public discourse.