A significant gap exists between government statistics and the realities faced by everyday Fijians, according to Opposition MP Premila Kumar. Her remarks came during a discussion with Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad concerning Fiji’s reported economic performance.
While the government’s report presented an optimistic view of economic growth, increased revenue, and promising forecasts, Kumar challenged the Minister on the real-life effects of these numbers on the population. She pointedly asked, “If the economy is doing well, why are our people not feeling it?” highlighting that while the figures may indicate success, they do not reflect the daily struggles of ordinary citizens.
Kumar argued that the government’s focus on numerical achievements does not address the pressing issues that families encounter. She emphasized that “numbers don’t put food on the table, pay rent, or ease the daily struggles of ordinary Fijians.” She also raised concerns over the rising cost of living, noting that basic staples such as bread and butter are becoming unaffordable luxuries. For instance, bread prices have surged from 71 cents to $1, and a 500-gram pack of butter now costs nearly $14.
Furthermore, Kumar criticized the government for its failure to honor campaign promises aimed at reducing living costs. She pointed out that instead of the expected reductions in prices for essentials like beer, butter, and chops, many families now face difficult choices between affording medicine or groceries, or deciding whether to pay rent or electricity bills.
In addition, she condemned the government’s decision to eliminate free bus fares for seniors aged 60 and over, a benefit that was previously established by the former government, labeling it as a direct attack on the elderly population.
This discussion brings to light the crucial need for the government to focus not only on economic indicators but also on the day-to-day realities of citizens. It emphasizes the importance of translating positive financial data into tangible support for the public, ensuring that all Fijians can benefit from improvements in the economy.
As Fiji navigates these challenges, there is hope for a renewed focus on policies that prioritize the needs of ordinary citizens, potentially leading to a future where the economy’s growth is truly felt in the lives of all Fijians.
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