Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica emphasized the importance of ensuring people’s fundamental rights and freedoms through tangible actions rather than mere words. Speaking at the launch of the National Development Plan at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, he acknowledged that it has taken time for both the public and investors to adapt to the new political landscape and embrace their newfound freedoms.
Kamikamica pointed out that significant work remains to be done to establish a genuine democratic nation, particularly regarding the review of the Constitution to better reflect the will of the people. He stated that the government’s primary objective in its first year was to restore freedom, build confidence, and foster trust among various communities by promoting an environment of mutual respect.
Addressing the country’s challenging public finances and the need to reduce national debt, he identified these issues as top priorities for the Coalition Government. He noted that stabilizing public finances was crucial to create the fiscal space necessary for implementing development policies. The government has also taken swift action to ensure job security for civil servants by eliminating fixed-term contracts.
During the past two years, the government has focused resources on programs that provide citizens with essential services, such as access to clean drinking water, improved drainage systems, upgraded rural roads, and quality healthcare and education. Despite steady progress, Kamikamica acknowledged that some areas still lack access to these basic needs.
He expressed optimism that all citizens, both domestically and internationally, would eventually attain these fundamental rights, regardless of whether they reside in urban or rural settings.