Opposition MP Premila Kumar has strongly urged Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica to stop attributing the current economic challenges to the previous FijiFirst Government and instead substantiate his allegations with concrete evidence. Kumar argues that if Kamikamica genuinely believes there was mismanagement, he should pursue legal action against those accountable.
In her critique, Kumar noted that during the Bainimarama Government’s tenure, Fiji experienced significant economic growth, exemplified by the GDP doubling from $6 billion to nearly $12 billion, and GDP per capita increasing from $6,600 to over $13,000. She emphasized this marked improvement reflects a transition from a low-income to an upper middle-income country, elevating Fiji’s international status.
Conversely, Kumar criticized the current Coalition Government for allegedly reversing this progress by exacerbating living costs for families and businesses through policies such as increasing the VAT from 9% to 15% and raising corporate taxes from 20% to 25%. She contended that these actions have led to rising costs of necessities, forcing families to make difficult financial choices.
Kumar contended that the government’s narrative of blaming imported inflation for the rising costs ignores the compounding effects of their tax increases. She stated, “Common sense dictates that during high import prices, raising duties and taxes only inflates the cost of living further.”
Kumar’s statements echo her earlier criticisms of the government’s fiscal practices, suggesting a pattern of negligence regarding the population’s basic needs. In previous addresses, she has pointed out that many families are now faced with the stark reality of choosing between basic items such as groceries and essential bills, despite government claims of a robust economy.
She has called upon Kamikamica and the Coalition Government to take responsibility for what she perceives as their failed policies. By promoting inclusive economic strategies and prioritizing the welfare of all Fijians, there is substantial hope for improving the living conditions of the population. Through concerted efforts, the government has an opportunity to realign its focus on all citizens, fostering a more equitable economy that could help alleviate the struggles faced by ordinary families.
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