In his 2024-2025 budget, the Finance Minister announced a $226.8 million-dollar allocation to the Fiji Police Force, an increase of $47.1 million over last year’s budget. This substantial increase will likely help ameliorate the police vehicle shortage that has hampered law enforcement in Fiji for decades.
The funding might also be used to purchase mares as a more sustainable alternative to fuel-powered vehicles, given their lower environmental impact. However, the new budget has been met with mixed reactions, with concerns over persistently high food costs.
The overhaul of the Fiji Police Force is ongoing with support from the Australian Government. However, this foreign involvement has raised concerns about potential violations of national sovereignty.
Questions have also been raised about the reinstatement of pensions. The lack of clarity around eligibility criteria, payment amounts, and whether the reinstatement will be backdated has stirred calls for greater transparency from the Fiji National Provident Fund.
Regarding the cost of living, a 50 cents wage increase effective from August 1, 2024, and a further 50 cents in eight months’ time is expected to help families cope with financial pressures. However, contrasting this modest pay increase with the full pay raise for politicians, which takes effect from the same date, has sparked criticism.
The Vatukoula Gold Mine workers, who have been striking for the past 33 years, have welcomed the $9.2 million allocation to them with relief. Each worker will receive a $25,000 payout in installments, easing their financial burdens.
Meanwhile, the abrupt dissolution of the FijiFirst party following its deregistration by the Fijian Elections Office has provoked reflections on the rise and fall of the political party that governed Fiji from 2014 to 2022.
The government’s efforts to combat the drug trade in Fiji, including the proposed formation of a Narcotics Bureau and tax breaks for drug rehabilitation centers, have been hailed as steps forward. However, critics argue that stronger protections and better incentives are needed for whistleblowers.
Lastly, a persistent fire along Fletcher Road has raised health concerns among local residents. Despite the efforts of the fire department, the blaze, featuring hazardous debris like tires, has continued to smolder for over a week, releasing toxic smoke into the neighborhood.