The Coalition Government of Fiji is committed to making decisions regarding pensioners in consultation with the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF). This comes in light of Opposition MP Premila Kumar’s appeal to repeal the 2011 FNPF Transition Act, which restricts pensioners from seeking legal redress if they feel inadequately compensated. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, remarked that the previous military government’s actions eroded trust between the Fund and its pensioners, creating an environment where justice was limited.
In response to the concerns raised, Professor Prasad pointed out that the Coalition Government has included $4 million in the budget specifically aimed at restoring pensions affected by decisions made in 2011. To provide immediate help, the Government has introduced a temporary social pension scheme for impacted individuals, offering payments of $125 for those over 70 and $115 for those aged 60 to 69.
To date, approximately $1.3 million has been allocated to assist around 1,300 pensioners since August, with payments scheduled on the 14th and 28th of each month, following the pension payment cycle.
This proactive approach reflects the Coalition Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting its senior citizens, ensuring they receive the financial assistance they need while work is underway to address longer-term pension system reforms.
By engaging with the FNPF and listening to the concerns of pensioners, the government is paving the way for a more transparent and just framework for managing pensions in Fiji. The collaborative efforts signify a hopeful future for pensioners, restoring confidence in a system that has faced challenges in the past.
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