Opposition Member of Parliament, Faiyaz Koya, claims the fiscal policies announced in the 2024-2025 National Budget will exacerbate the inequality between the poor and rich in the country.
During the Budget debate, Koya criticized the government’s policies, stating that they burden ordinary Fijians. He argued that increases in fringe benefit tax and other indirect taxes will be passed on to consumers, making everyday goods and services more expensive.
Koya questioned the necessity of the Budget, claiming it does little to address the needs of the low-income and working class, citing that teachers feel undervalued and underpaid.
“There is a glaring lack of initiative to retain talent within the country or invest in human capital. No significant projects or meaningful infrastructure development measures exist, leaving many vulnerable communities without the help they desperately need,” he said.
Koya suggested this was a reason why the Minister for Finance did not tour the countryside extensively, indicating the Minister was aware of the negative reception he would receive.
He also criticized the Budget for lacking transparency and accountability, alleging financial benefits were flowing to close associates and donors.
“This lack of accountability is unacceptable. The government must provide a clear and detailed account of how public funds are being used,” Koya stated.
He added that the Budget neglects critical sectors essential for long-term economic growth, noting there is no substantial support for agriculture, which provides food security and livelihoods for thousands of Fijians.
Koya further highlighted that the manufacturing sector, which has the potential to create jobs and reduce reliance on imports, is overlooked.
“Government’s fiscal management is poor, falling short of tax collections and failing to diversify revenue sources,” he concluded.