We cannot afford a payrise for civil servants: PM

The Coalition Government cannot afford to increase salaries for civil servants in the 2026-2027 National Budget, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says.

Speaking to the Fiji Sun yesterday, Mr Rabuka said the Government had made the difficult decision not to grant a pay rise because it must remain fiscally responsible.

"We cannot afford it," he said.

Asked about the rising cost of living, Mr Rabuka acknowledged the financial pressures facing many Fijians but encouraged people to make greater use of local resources.

"I will just have to encourage people to live off the land," he said.

Mr Rabuka also said many everyday commuter-related costs would not increase under the new Budget, providing some relief for households.

The 2026-2027 National Budget was unveiled yesterday, with the Government saying it aims to balance economic growth with fiscal responsibility while maintaining essential public services.