Editorial: This budget must deliver
People are tired of government waste and excuses.
Thursday 26 June 2025 | 12:00
Fijians have waited long enough. This Budget must not be filled with big speeches and fancy promises. People want real action – now.
Across the country, life has become too hard. Food prices are out of reach, power bills are rising, and water is still not reaching many homes.
Families are struggling, children are missing school, and jobs are too few. Public safety is a worry as drugs and crime increase. Health services are stretched, teachers are leaving, and transport is unreliable. Even our buses and ferries are no longer comfortable or safe.
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The e-ticketing system is a daily struggle for many – confusing, slow, and often unfair. In many areas, water pressure is low, reservoirs are not improving, and electricity remains expensive.
Add to this the fast rise of Artificial Intelligence and cybercrime. Students don’t have the tools they need.
Parents don’t know how to protect their children online. Fiji must invest in safe, smart digital growth before we are left behind.
People are tired of government waste and excuses.
“Life is getting expensive,” says 21-year-old Nandini Lata of Makoi.
“I hope the Government reduces the cost of food, bus fares, and basic needs.” Many agree.
“We want food prices to decrease,” said Waisea Makulau of Labasa.
“We want a drop in VAT,” added Amy Subam of Naitasiri.
Gyanendra Nath, a sugarcane farmer, hopes for “more assistance schemes and a cane price of $150 per tonne.”
Vendors like Ekari Radaga want lower stall fees.
Others, like Makelesi Ditua, want more grants for women in business.
Health and education are key issues.
“We need more medicine, more doctors, and more education scholarships,” said Nandini.
Karaorao Maiu, wants salaries raised and Government overseas spending cut.
“Focus on the problems at home,” she said.
Digital safety must not be ignored. Cyber fraud, AI risks, and online bullying are growing. Government must train, equip, and protect its people in this new digital age. Media and social media literacy must be a priority.
People want fairness, not favours. Clean water. Cheaper goods. Reliable public transport. Safe streets. Better schools and hospitals. Honest leadership.
No more wastage.
Today’s budget must prove that the Government people had voted for change is listening. Three years have passed. The blame game against the previous government must stop. It’s embarrassing. The people of Fiji are watching – and they deserve better.
Feedback: naisak@fijisun.com.fj
