Opposition MP Ketan Lal has called on the Minister for Public Works, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, to stop deflecting criticism and take responsibility for the recent collapse of the Vuniyasi Bridge in Nadi. Lal believes that real leadership involves addressing pressing issues rather than resorting to personal attacks, which Tuisawau labeled him as ‘childish’ and ‘desperate’.

In his statement, Lal expressed dismay at Tuisawau’s dismissal of his concerns, emphasizing that the issues at hand—such as the bridge collapse—are not about politics but about the safety and welfare of ordinary Fijians. “Blaming the bridge’s collapse on flooding is a poor excuse,” Lal remarked, stressing that infrastructure must be resilient to natural challenges like floods and cyclones. He questioned the Minister about the lack of maintenance and reinforcement of the bridge, suggesting a serious oversight in his ministry.

Highlighting the broader implications, Lal stated that the condition of the bridge and the state of Fiji’s roads reflect the deteriorating governance under Tuisawau’s leadership. He argued that accountability must start at the top and that the government must prioritize the needs of the people, moving beyond broken promises and inadequate responses to infrastructure challenges.

The discourse around this incident is particularly timely, as it not only highlights the tensions between various political factions in Fiji but also underscores a critical opportunity for reflective governance. By engaging openly with criticism and prioritizing the maintenance of vital public infrastructure, the government can pave the way for restoring public trust and ensuring the safety of its citizens.

There is hope that this political exchange can lead to tangible reforms, as leaders consider the importance of accountability and active problem-solving in their approach to governance. With constructive dialogue, Fiji has the potential to enhance its infrastructure and public safety standards, ultimately benefiting all Fijians.