Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed his belief that members of Parliament do not require new laptops and mobile phones. He stated that the devices he received at the start of his term are still functioning properly.
His comments followed the publication of a tender for these high-end gadgets by the Department of Information Technology and Computing Services. When questioned about the matter, Rabuka emphasized that these resources should only be allocated to those who truly need them, stating, “The need is my question; whether we really need it.” He added, “Mine is still working very well… and the phones are just normal phones, and they are working well.”
In response to the tender proposal, Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry criticized the initiative, claiming it burdens taxpayers. Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad countered the claims, labeling them as “misleading.” He clarified that this budget is a parliamentary matter and does not pertain to ministers. “Parliament has a budget,” he noted, explaining that it operates independently of the executive. The prerogative to support its members rests with the Parliament Secretary-General and Speaker.
Leader of Government in Parliament and deputy leader of The People’s Alliance party, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, confirmed that ministers have not yet received new mobile phones and laptops. He mentioned that they continue to use the devices issued at the commencement of their terms, acquired through their respective ministry budgets.
Tuisawau stated, “I am not aware of any communications from the Secretary-General of Parliament on members receiving new laptops and mobile phones.” He further clarified that it appears to be the MPs who have been issued with these new items and suggested that this inquiry be directed to the Leader of the Opposition.
Additionally, Judith Kotobalavu, general secretary of the Fiji Public Service Association (FPSA), criticized the situation, indicating a troubling disconnect between Parliament and the everyday challenges faced by Fijians. She urged Parliament to concentrate on policies aimed at alleviating poverty, enhancing healthcare, and assisting economic recovery rather than engaging in extravagant perks. Kotobalavu called for an immediate cessation of this entitlement culture, advocating for resources to be redirected to pressing public needs.
Inquiries were made to the Parliament secretariat and Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu, but no responses were received.