The Coalition Government of Fiji is committed to making decisions regarding pensioners in collaboration with the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF). This follows a request from Opposition MP Premila Kumar to repeal the 2011 FNPF Transition Act, which would permit pensioners to take their grievances to court if they believe they have been wronged financially. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, noted that actions taken by the previous military government compromised the relationship of trust between pensioners and the Fund.
He criticized the prior government for enacting a law that prevented pensioners from seeking legal recourse regarding their financial treatment. Prasad pointed out that the current government’s decision to allocate $4 million to enhance pension benefits for those who opted for a lower pension dates back to 2011.
Since the formation of the Coalition Government, a temporary solution was implemented, allowing pensioners aged 70 and above to receive a government social pension of $125, while those aged 60 to 69 receive $115. To support this initiative, the Ministry of Finance has partnered with FNPF to provide additional payments to affected pensioners. As of August, approximately $1.3 million has been disbursed to around 1,300 pensioners, with payments scheduled to occur on the 14th and 28th of each month.
This approach signifies the government’s efforts to restore trust and provide financial assistance to those in need, reflecting a positive step toward addressing the concerns of pensioners and ensuring their welfare is prioritized.
In summary, the Coalition Government is actively working to collaborate with the FNPF to rectify issues facing pensioners, positioning itself as a responsive and responsible authority committed to restoring justice and enhancing the financial stability of its retirees.
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