Opposition MP Praveen Bala has criticized the 2025-2026 National Budget, referring to it as a “lollipop budget” that serves as a temporary, superficial solution intended to garner votes in an election year. Speaking during a Parliament debate, Bala emphasized that the budget does not address the long-term challenges facing Fiji, which has left many citizens feeling dissatisfied.
“This is not a people’s budget; it’s just cash dangled in front of voters that sacrifices our future stability,” Bala stated. He pointed to the soaring costs of everyday items, particularly lamb chops, which were promised to be priced at $5 but have now skyrocketed to $23.50. Bala suggested that the government could consider rebates for importers to alleviate these prices, instead of offering hollow promises.
He has labeled the budget as “reckless in its spending,” accusing the government of neglecting critical needs such as healthcare, where nurses reportedly lack basic resources, and condemning the government’s approach as gambling with the future of Fiji. “Families are forced to choose between necessities like food and medicine, reflecting governance that lacks accountability and foresight,” Bala said.
Similar concerns have been echoed by other opposition members, such as Ketan Lal, who criticized earlier budgets for not adequately considering the financial struggles of ordinary Fijians and for a lack of substantial public consultation in the budgeting process. The dissatisfaction outlined by the opposition represents a broader critique of the coalition’s fiscal policies during an economically challenging time for many citizens.
Despite the criticisms, the ongoing dialogue among opposition figures may pave the way for constructive revisions to budgetary approaches, focusing on the true needs of everyday Fijians and fostering hope for genuine economic reform. Engaging the public and addressing their concerns regarding essential costs could contribute to more effective budget planning in the future.
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