The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) has urged government leaders to refocus on the pressing everyday challenges faced by ordinary Fijians, highlighting concerns that vital social and economic issues are being overshadowed by political distractions. FCOSS president Sepesa Rasili emphasized that the Prime Minister has diverted attention from the urgent needs of the populace, as discussions around the Commission of Inquiry (COI) Report take precedence over basic service accessibility.
According to Rasili, many communities are grappling with significant issues, including inadequate healthcare, limited access to clean water, food insecurity, and unemployment. He pointed out that while the 2024–2025 National Budget included considerable allocations—$3.013 billion for education and health sectors and $1.4 billion for access and infrastructure—the deeper structural problems remain unaddressed.
His comments resonate with previous sentiments expressed by Shamima Ali from the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, who criticized the government for a lack of accountability and engagement with the public. Ali highlighted that despite promises to reduce travel costs, many ministers continue to travel abroad frequently. The needs for basic support to aid families in distress, exacerbated by the rising cost of living, have led organizations to distribute food packages—something that was uncommon in previous years.
The opposition has echoed these sentiments, calling for tangible action rather than political rhetoric to improve the lives of citizens. With nearly half the population living below the poverty line, there’s a pressing need for inclusive development reforms that actually improve the welfare of affected communities.
FCOSS urged the government to shift its priorities towards creating a people-first leadership model that emphasizes accountability and measurable improvements in daily life for Fijians. This call for reform is likely to resonate widely among citizens who continue to struggle with routine challenges.
The dialogue suggests that there is still hope for positive change, given the recognition by both civil society and opposition voices of the need for government to address these critical issues directly. With collaborative efforts, there may be a path forward where both government and organizations can work together for the betterment of all Fijians. Through meaningful reforms and community engagement, it is possible to create a more responsive governance framework that measures success by the well-being of its citizens.
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