Market vendors and farmers in Labasa are voicing their concerns to the government, asking for more attention to be placed on the pressing issues affecting everyday Fijians, rather than being consumed by ongoing political disputes. Vendor Shakunta Lal highlighted the daily struggle to meet financial obligations as prices of goods continue to rise, expressing hope that the upcoming 2025-2026 national budget will bring relief.
Lal remarked, “I think the price of the things should go down. Because the wages are not enough to meet our demands for the food we eat. Plus, the profit is not that much since we are paying stall fees and even our transportation daily.” Fellow vendor Vijen Sami echoed this sentiment by suggesting that the government should reduce the market stall fees in Labasa from $2.80 to $2, as current fees often exceed their total weekly earnings.
Additionally, farmers like Iowane Raicebe from Taveuni are urging the government to focus on combating the kava dieback disease, which has significantly reduced kava supply in the market, leading to higher prices. Raicebe emphasized, “The kava industry is suffering due to the diseases. The government should consider assisting farmers or helping address this disease.”
The anticipation surrounding the 2025-2026 National Budget, which will be announced next Friday, carries the hope that it will address these critical issues and focus on the well-being of ordinary citizens and their communities.
This call for action resonates with similar concerns from vendors across Fiji, like Sevuloni Kai, who recently shared his struggles amid rising costs, urging for government measures that can alleviate financial pressures on families. Deputy Prime Minister Prof. Biman Prasad has acknowledged these challenges and proposed a three-pronged approach to alleviate living costs.
As the budget announcement approaches, there remains a glimmer of hope that the government will heed the voices of those who are experiencing hardship. By addressing these immediate needs, there is potential for positive change to improve the livelihoods of many Fijians.
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