Opposition Member of Parliament, Ketan Lal, has criticized the 2024-2025 National Budget, likening it to a “runaway bulldozer” that threatens Fiji’s economic stability and future.
During the Budget debate in Parliament, Lal accused Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, of poor economic management.
Lal asserted that the Budget demonstrates the Government’s reluctance to address the true needs of the Fijian people, calling it a betrayal of trust and a gross neglect of duty.
“The Budget is not just flawed; it highlights their failures and inability to lead our country wisely. The Government has put political games and incompetence above responsible financial management,” Lal said.
He emphasized that the Budget neglects the voices and needs of the Fijian people, with minimal input from the general population of Fiji.
Lal further claimed that the Government is operating in a bubble, disconnected from the realities on the ground.
He stated that Prof Prasad has failed to engage with the populace, and many individuals are dissatisfied with his performance.
Lal criticized the Budget for failing to address the high cost of living while imposing a burdensome 15 percent VAT.
“I urge the Prime Minister to reconsider his stance on the 15 percent. Reverting these taxes would ease the burden on countless families,” Lal said.
He warned that if the Government continues with these high taxes, the ripple effect on consumers would be devastating, leading to higher prices for goods and services and making it harder for the average Fijian to make ends meet.