Ketan Lal, the Shadow Minister for Justice, has called on the Coalition Government to focus on the pressing infrastructure crisis that is adversely affecting the lives of Fijians. He highlighted the recent collapse of the Vuniyasi Bridge in Nadi as a clear indication of the government’s failure to prioritize public safety and welfare.
Lal expressed grave concern regarding the repercussions of the bridge’s collapse, noting that it nearly resulted in four fatalities, left communities isolated from essential road access, and disrupted water supply. He attributed these critical failures to government negligence and inaction.
“For two years, the Fiji Roads Authority and the Public Works Department have been in a state of disarray under this government’s oversight,” Lal stated. He criticized the government for its inability to manage substantial budgets effectively while the nation’s infrastructure crumbles, emphasizing that vital bridges and roads are deteriorating rapidly.
He questioned the government’s focus on political maneuvers and unnecessary reconciliation commissions instead of addressing these urgent infrastructure issues. Lal challenged the administration, asking how many more lives need to be endangered before it takes responsible action. He criticized the Minister for Infrastructure for failing to provide essential maintenance and oversight and holds them accountable for the impending national infrastructure crisis.
Lal urged for immediate changes in leadership, calling for the resignation or reorganization of key ministers to ensure that competent individuals are appointed to tackle the nation’s infrastructure challenges. He concluded by emphasizing that Fijians deserve a government committed to their well-being, urging for a shift from political theatrics to effective and responsible governance.
This situation underscores the importance of proactive governance, particularly in infrastructure management, which directly impacts public safety and community connectivity. It also serves as a call to action for government accountability, urging leaders to prioritize the needs of citizens over political agendas. There is hope that through these discussions, the government will be inspired to reform and take necessary actions that reflect the priorities of the Fijian people.
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