Opposition MP Ketan Lal has called on the Minister for Public Works, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, to confront the fallout from the recent collapse of the Vuniyasi Bridge in Nadi and take accountability, rather than deflecting criticism. Lal’s remarks were in response to Tuisawau’s derogatory comments labeling him as “childish” and “desperate.”

Lal expressed his disappointment over Tuisawau’s dismissal of his concerns, emphasizing that the issues at hand are not merely political but significantly affect the safety and well-being of everyday Fijians. He criticized the Minister for attributing the bridge’s failure solely to flooding, arguing that infrastructure in Fiji should be resilient against natural disasters, including floods and cyclones. Lal posed critical questions regarding the apparent lack of maintenance and reinforcement of the bridge despite known risks, suggesting a serious neglect within Tuisawau’s ministry.

Highlighting the broader implications of this incident, Lal stated that the condition of the Vuniyasi Bridge, along with the general state of Fiji’s roads, serves as a stark indication of deeper dysfunction within the government’s leadership. He insisted that accountability must begin from the top, asserting, “Ministers serve the people, not themselves,” and advocating for a shift toward prioritizing public needs over political maneuvering.

This political exchange sheds light on the urgent call for infrastructure improvement in Fiji and resonates with a public increasingly frustrated by unkept promises and deteriorating services. The situation presents a critical opportunity for discussions around governance to lead to transformative reforms focused on public safety and effective infrastructure management.

As this discourse unfolds, there is hope that it could inspire meaningful changes in government accountability and resource allocation toward essential services. By actively engaging with these concerns, the government has the potential to enhance the living standards and safety of all Fijians, reinforcing a culture of responsible leadership that prioritizes community welfare.

In summary, Lal’s pointed criticisms not only call for immediate action regarding infrastructure issues but also emphasize the necessity of responsible governance that genuinely focuses on serving the public’s interests.