The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) has praised the 2025-2026 National Budget presented by Finance Minister Biman Prasad, calling it “very pragmatic” and reflective of the government’s attentiveness to citizen concerns, particularly surrounding the rising cost of living. FCOSS executive director, Vani Catanasiga, stated that the budget’s provisions indicate that government officials are listening to the needs of the populace.
Key measures such as the reduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) from 15% to 12.5% and the elimination of tariffs on food items have been highlighted as significant reliefs for ordinary citizens. Catanasiga emphasized the importance of these reductions in addressing the immediate financial burdens faced by families.
While some critics speculated that the Budget might be influenced by upcoming elections, Catanasiga refuted this, indicating that it aligns with the National Development Plan (NDP) and is a continuation of previous budgetary reforms aimed at enhancing public finance management.
The FCOSS also expressed appreciation for increased government funding towards the Ministry of Rural Development. Catanasiga mentioned that this funding would help address long-standing community issues, such as infrastructure projects like bridges and lighting. Additionally, she welcomed the increase in police funding, recognizing it as a response to community safety concerns linked to drug-related issues.
This budget reflects a broader trend of including citizen feedback in fiscal planning, as indicated in previous discussions about the government’s commitment to listening to public input. The optimism surrounding these budget allocations suggests a collaborative effort to improve the quality of life for Fijians. Overall, the engagement between government and citizens marks a hopeful step towards responsive governance that not only addresses immediate concerns but also paves the way for long-term community development and safety.
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