Opposition MP Premila Kumar has voiced strong criticism of the government’s economic policies, characterizing them as beneficial only to a privileged few. During her address in Parliament, Kumar highlighted that ordinary Fijians are facing a significant rise in the cost of living, with essential goods and services increasingly becoming unaffordable luxuries.
Kumar outlined the difficult choices families are forced to make, such as deciding between purchasing medicine or groceries, and between paying rent or electricity bills. She questioned the government’s claims of a strong economy, asking where the benefits are if not among those struggling, including hardworking farmers grappling with rising input costs and professionals like nurses and teachers seeking better opportunities abroad.
She asserted that the government’s focus on economic growth appears to favor multinational corporations and the elite, at the expense of the majority. Kumar emphasized that true economic health should be measured by the well-being and dignity of all citizens rather than just by statistical data.
Moreover, she called for a shift in policy, urging the government to prioritize investments that support ordinary citizens and small businesses, to reduce VAT on essential items, and to create jobs through infrastructure development. Kumar stated that a successful economy is reflected in the lives of its people and their opportunities rather than numbers on a page.
In conclusion, while the criticisms highlight pressing issues faced by many Fijians, it is important for the government to listen to these concerns and consider reforms that could lead to a more equitable economic landscape, ultimately benefiting the entire population. Creating opportunities for all citizens can foster a more inclusive and resilient economy, ensuring that no one is left behind as the nation moves forward.
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