Opposition MP Premila Kumar has voiced her strong criticism of the Government’s economic strategies, which she claims are intended to benefit only a select group of individuals. During a speech in Parliament, she highlighted the worsening conditions for everyday Fijians, particularly noting the dramatic rise in the cost of living that has turned basic goods and services into luxuries.
Kumar pointed out that families are now confronted with difficult choices, often having to decide between essential items such as medicine and groceries, or between paying rent and settling electricity bills. Despite this reality, she argued that the Government continues to assert that the economy is robust and thriving.
“If the economy is indeed strong, where is the evidence?” Kumar questioned. “Who is truly benefitting? It is clearly not the hardworking farmers facing soaring input costs, nor the nurses and teachers who are seeking better prospects overseas. It’s also not the small business owners struggling to remain operational.”
She added that the current economic policies seem to cater to a limited number of privileged individuals, multinational companies, and the elite, while the majority of the population struggles to make ends meet. Kumar emphasized that the Government appears to have lost its path, prioritizing economic statistics over the welfare of its citizens.
Kumar called for a shift in focus, urging the Government to implement policies that uplift all citizens, not just those at the top. She suggested lowering VAT on essential goods to alleviate the burdens faced by families, supporting small businesses crucial to the economy, and creating legitimate opportunities to retain skilled workers domestically.
She concluded with a poignant reminder that a true measure of economic success lies not in numerical data, but in the well-being, opportunities, and dignity of the Fijian people. Kumar warned that the increasing poverty levels serve as a testament to the disconnect between the Government’s promises and the actual conditions endured by its citizens.
In light of these issues, there is hope for change and improvement. By recognizing the challenges faced by the population and adopting inclusive policies, the Government has the potential to create an environment that fosters economic growth for all Fijians, rather than just a few. A united effort toward prioritizing the needs of everyday families can pave the way for a more equitable economic future.
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