Opposition Member of Parliament Rinesh Sharma has raised concerns about the government’s responsibility in managing the national budget.
During his budget response in parliament, Sharma criticized the budget consultation process as overly formal and lacking extensive public engagement.
“The so-called people’s government, Mr. Speaker sir, accepts submissions for the budget, but the Minister for Finance did not conduct a nationwide public consultation. He did not listen to the voices of the public, Mr. Speaker sir. Is this a responsible government?” he questioned.
Sharma highlighted that Fiji’s GDP grew in 2022 and that the Coalition government had inherited a strong economic position. He criticized the government’s decision to borrow more money despite increased taxes. “Mr. Speaker sir, debt is up to $10.9 billion, debt to GDP ratio is $77.8 million, but the price of bread has gone up, VAT is imposed on butter. It’s a bread-and-butter issue. Is this a responsible government?” he added.
Sharma also warned that coalition partners SODELPA and PAP would have to defend the current economic policies in the next election.
He emphasized that high taxes are burdening ordinary Fijians and making it difficult for them to make ends meet. “The cost of zero-rated items is 22, and it is expected to go up to 30 in this budget. The Honorable Finance Minister believes in raising taxes to increase government income. He calls the government responsible, but VAT has increased from 9 to 15 percent and corporate tax to 25 percent. Is this a responsible government?” Sharma said.
He further pointed out the reduction of the tax threshold from $2,000 to $1,000 with a 15 percent VAT applied. “Is this a responsible government?” he reiterated.
Sharma also criticized the large size of the government with many ministers and assistant ministers leading to huge operating expenses.