Focus on bread and butter issues, FCOSS urges

The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) is calling on Government leaders to shift their focus back to the everyday struggles of ordinary Fijians, warning that critical social and economic issues are being sidelined by political distractions.

FCOSS president Sepesa Rasili, said once again, the Prime Minister’s attention has diverted from the immediate and pressing needs of our people.

Mr Rasili’s remarks come amid continued national debate over the handling of the COI Report, even as many communities remain burdened by a lack of access to basic services such as clean water, healthcare, food security, and employment.

“This time last year, national discourse was dominated by a motion to increase parliamentary salaries. In 2025, it is the Commission of Inquiry Report that appears to take centrestage,” he said.

Drawing from the findings of the FCOSS-led Citizens Budget

Analysis of the 2024–2025 National Budget, compiled with input from communities across all four divisions, Mr Rasili acknowledged significant budgetary commitments to service delivery and infrastructure. The budget allocated $3.013 billion to key sectors including education and health, and $1.4b to access and infrastructure. However, he stressed that deeper structural issues persist.

“The findings also underscore critical gaps. These include the need for stronger coordination between ministries, cross-agency collaboration, and mechanisms to ensure accountability and tangible outcomes at the community level.” He said public safety remained a major concern, noting that while $11.6 million had been allocated to tackle the country’s escalating drug crisis, there was still a glaring absence of systemic support and long-term investment to sustain real progress.

“What our people need is not more distraction, but dedicated, people-first leadership that strengthens essential services and delivers measurable improvements in daily life,” he said.

FCOSS urged Government to concentrate on reforms that promoted inclusive development and respond to the needs of those most affected by poverty and inequality.

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