Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum surprised market vendors and members of the public when he turned up at the Labasa Market on Saturday.

This was after the National Budget Consultation at the Labasa Civic Centre.

Mr Sayed-Khaiyum was greeted by quite a number of people and he took time to listen to the views of those who approached and greeted him at the market.

Market vendors who were “suki” sellers complained that their licence was not renewed due to late payment. The terms and conditions in the agreement was that the fees were to be paid two months prior the due date or the licence would be cancelled.

Mirika Prasad, a 57-year-old suki seller of ten years, shared his request with Fiji Sun.

“This is our bread and butter; we have a family to feed, school has just started. They could have given us a chance or pay a late fee, but not to cancel our licence,” Mr Prasad said.

“We’re illiterate people; the council could have reminded us.”

Market vendors poses for a picture with the Minister for Economy. March 2,2019.Photo Laisa Lui

Another issue raised by a northerner was the drainage in front of the Labasa Market that needed maintenance, while some market vendors were more interested in expanding the market to cater for all vendors.

Market vendors were delighted that they had an opportunity to meet Mr Sayed-Khaiyum and sell him some of their products.

Edited by Epineri Vula

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