Premila Kumar, a senior member of the opposition representing the Group of 16 (G16), expressed strong criticism of the government’s recent economic forecasts during a response session yesterday. Kumar highlighted the disconnect between the government’s reported economic growth and the lived reality of many Fijians, asserting, “They celebrate numbers, but numbers don’t put food on the table. Numbers don’t pay rent!”
She questioned how many citizens actually feel relief when shopping for groceries or paying utility bills, emphasizing that for many, improvements in their standard of living seem non-existent. Kumar pointed out that increasing duties, taxes, and Value Added Tax (VAT) have not translated into a better quality of life for families.
“The cost of living has skyrocketed,” she noted, indicating that basic necessities have become unaffordable for many. She criticized the government for focusing on economic growth that she claims only benefits a select few, including multinationals and well-connected elites, while the majority of the population struggles in marginal conditions.
This commentary reinforces important discussions around the real impact of economic policies on everyday citizens, particularly in low-income communities. It highlights the need for a government approach that prioritizes the well-being of all citizens rather than solely focusing on macroeconomic indicators.
With the challenges highlighted by Kumar, there remains a hopeful belief that the government can pivot towards more inclusive policies that genuinely address the needs of everyday Fijians, ultimately contributing to a fairer economic landscape for all.
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