The Coalition Government has committed to making decisions regarding pensioners in partnership with the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF). This announcement comes in response to Opposition MP Premila Kumar’s suggestion to repeal the 2011 FNPF Transition Act, which would enable pensioners to seek legal recourse if they believe their funds have been mishandled. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, highlighted that past military government actions had eroded trust between the Fund and pensioners, and laws were enacted to prevent pensioners from pursuing legal challenges against perceived injustices.
Professor Prasad noted that in the budget, the government allocated $4 million to restore pensions for individuals who opted for lower pension payouts back in 2011. Following the formation of the Coalition Government, a temporary solution was introduced, allowing affected pensioners to receive government social pensions of $125 for those aged 70 and above, and $115 for individuals between 60 and 69 years.
Additionally, the Ministry of Finance has established a partnership with the FNPF to facilitate top-up payments for affected pensioners, amounting to approximately $1.3 million distributed to 1,300 pensioners since August. Payments occur in accordance with the pension payment cycle on the 14th and 28th of each month.
This commitment to restoring trust and providing financial relief to pensioners is a positive step towards ensuring that those who have dedicated their lives to work receive the support they deserve. Such actions not only aid in the immediate financial welfare of pensioners, but they also signal a government taking responsibility for the past and striving to build a more equitable future for its citizens.
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