Opposition Member of Parliament Jone Usamate has launched serious accusations against the government, claiming it has misled Parliament on several occasions during a recent debate. This spirited exchange involved a confrontation with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica, who was challenged on the accuracy of his statements regarding infrastructure and financial issues.
Usamate criticized Kamikamica for allegedly misrepresenting facts, specifically regarding his claim that no classrooms were constructed under the previous government. In response, Usamate pointed to multiple schools, including Bau Central College and Jeremiah College, that were established during that time, asserting that Kamikamica’s statements were misleading.
Moreover, Usamate contested Kamikamica’s claim that he voted in favor of a significant $200 million government guarantee for borrowings in 2022, referencing official records that did not clearly support this assertion. Usamate accused Kamikamica of spreading “fake truths,” implying that the Deputy Prime Minister is manipulating information for political gain.
Tensions heightened when Usamate drew attention to a news report indicating that Fiji was facing a financial crisis. Kamikamica dismissed this report based on a conversation he had with the CEO of FBC, who reportedly acknowledged inaccuracies in their coverage.
Speaker of Parliament Filimone Jitoko recognized the seriousness of the issues presented and stated that he would issue a ruling on the matter in the future.
This exchange marks a significant moment in Fijian politics, emphasizing the crucial need for accountability and transparency. As the opposition continues to challenge the ruling party, it promotes a culture that could lead to better governance. A hopeful outcome of these confrontations is that they may empower Fijian citizens to engage more actively with their political representatives, fostering honest leadership and a more trustworthy political environment.
Leave a comment