There is a pressing need to ensure that citizens’ fundamental rights and freedoms are upheld—through tangible actions rather than just rhetoric. This call for action comes as the public and investors gradually adapt to the new political environment and embrace their newfound liberties.
Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica made these remarks at the launch of the National Development Plan at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva. He highlighted that significant efforts are still required to establish true democracy within the nation, particularly through the review of the Constitution to align it with the people’s wishes.
“Our primary objective during our first year in office was to restore freedom and confidence while fostering trust among our diverse communities and promoting mutual respect,” he stated.
Addressing the challenges of public finances and reducing national debt remains a top priority for the Coalition Government, according to Kamikamica.
“Stabilizing public finances is essential for creating the fiscal space needed for the effective implementation of development policies. We acted swiftly to provide job security for civil servants by eliminating all fixed-term contracts,” he explained.
In the past two years, the government has continued to allocate resources toward programs that ensure citizens have access to basic necessities, such as clean drinking water, improved drainage systems, upgraded rural roads, and quality healthcare and education. Despite steady progress, challenges remain in certain areas of the country that still lack these essential services.
Kamikamica expressed optimism that all citizens, whether living domestically or abroad, would soon have equal access to these fundamental needs, affirming that such access is a basic human right.