Former FijiFirst Party member Viliame Naupoto addressed Parliament for the first time today as a crossbench Member of Parliament. Expressing his support for the 2024-25 National Budget, Naupoto reflected on his current situation, attributing it to a decision he made in Parliament—one he does not regret—and decisions made by others outside the legislative body.
Crossbenchers, by definition, are Parliament members who do not belong to either the Government or the Opposition.
“At the outset, let me say that the decisions made outside of this Parliament were theirs to make and which I respect. I will not question the reasoning behind their decisions,” Naupoto stated.
“I have accepted my current status and will continue as a crossbench Member of Parliament for the remainder of this term. I made my choice, and as the saying goes, ‘You are free to choose, but you are not free from the consequence of your choice.’ That, I understand very well,” he added.
Despite recent events, Naupoto emphasized that he stands in Parliament with a newfound sense of freedom. He described this as the freedom to exercise his own judgment, consult across the floor, and work with others—including those from opposing sides—to best serve the citizens of Fiji.
“Today marks a new beginning for me,” he declared. “Democracy is not just about votes and the Legislature. It is primarily about human encounter and interaction. It’s about debate and compromise among people with diverse beliefs and political affiliations.”
Naupoto criticized the current state of politics, which he described as polarizing, noting that an “Us versus Them” and “My way or the highway” mentality breeds anger and hatred. He emphasized that when such divisive politics are perpetuated in Parliament, they set a poor example for the multi-racial, multi-cultural, and multi-religious society they serve.