The Fijian government revealed that it allocated approximately $64,813.67 for the Prime Minister and other ministers to participate in overseas celebrations for Fiji Day this year. This information was disclosed by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka in response to a question from MP Premila Kumar, who sought clarity about the governmental spending associated with international festivities.
The expenditures for the trip were detailed, indicating that the most significant individual expense was incurred by Sironi Turaga, Minister for Justice and Acting Attorney-General, at $11,783.84. Following closely were Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Information, with costs amounting to $11,551.68, and Penioni Ravunawa, Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services, who spent $10,500.55. Prime Minister Rabuka’s travel expenses were recorded at $8,899.95, ranking him as the second-lowest spender among the officials present.
The trip saw Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru costing $8,583.93, Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Agni Deo Singh at $7,165.72, and Sashi Kiran, Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, at $6,328.00. Each minister had specific engagements abroad during these celebrations, with Mr. Singh attending as the chief guest in Geelong, Melbourne, while Ms. Tabuya marked the occasion in Naracoorte, South Australia, engaging with Fijian and Pacific workers under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility Scheme. Meanwhile, Minister Kiran and the Acting AG attended events in Auckland and Wellington, respectively.
These expenditures occur against a backdrop of discussions surrounding government spending patterns, as a report indicated that from April 2024 to April 2025, Fijian officials undertook 147 official trips costing taxpayers nearly $1.9 million. Notably, previous government administrations have faced scrutiny for similar travel expenses, prompting calls for greater fiscal responsibility amidst ongoing economic challenges for the Fijian population.
Despite the controversies surrounding governmental expenditures, it’s essential to recognize the potential benefits of such international engagements. They provide opportunities for Fijian officials to enhance diplomatic relations and promote investment and development initiatives that can yield long-term benefits for local communities. Ultimately, the hope is that these international interactions will lead to enhanced welfare and prosperity for the Fijian people, aligning governmental activities with the needs of its citizens, while fostering a commitment to transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
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