There is a pressing need to ensure people’s fundamental rights and freedoms through tangible actions, not just rhetoric. This is particularly relevant as both the public and investors adjust to the new political landscape and adapt to this “new-found” freedom.
Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica made these remarks during the unveiling of the National Development Plan at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva yesterday. He acknowledged that much work remains to be done for the nation to be genuinely democratic, specifically highlighting the need to review the Constitution to truly reflect the people’s will.
Kamikamica stated that the primary objective in the government’s first year was to restore freedom, build confidence, and establish trust among various communities, promoting an atmosphere of mutual respect.
Addressing the challenging state of public finances and the goal of reducing national debt remain significant priorities for the Coalition Government, he emphasized. He pointed out that stabilizing public finances is crucial for creating the necessary fiscal space to implement effective development policies. Additionally, the government has acted swiftly to provide job security for civil servants by eliminating all fixed-term contracts.
Over the past two years, the administration has focused resources on programs that offer citizens access to essential services, including clean drinking water, improved drainage systems, upgraded rural roads, as well as quality healthcare and education. While progress has been made, he acknowledged that some areas still lack access to these basic needs.
Kamikamica expressed optimism that all citizens, both domestically and internationally, would gain access to these essential services, regardless of whether they live in urban or rural areas, as these are considered human rights.