Former PM Criticises ‘Lavish’ GPH Dinner

The special dinner which was hosted by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka at the Grand Pacific Hotel, one of Suva’s expensive hotels has received criticism.

On Tuesday evening, Mr Rabuka hosted Government Ministers, Assistant Ministers and their spouses for a special dinner at GPH.

The event was reflectively a time for Mr Rabuka to acknowledge and thank the Government elite for the work they have done in the last two years while in power.

“With the support of the Cabinet Office, tonight’s event is a reflection of the bond we share and encourages friendship and camaraderie,” Mr Rabuka said.

“Let’s continue to dream without boundaries and keep up the good work.”

It was an event attended only by Cabinet members and their spouses.

Criticism

Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry criticised the event, calling it an embarrassment given that Fiji frequently seeks budget support from Australia and New Zealand.

He argued that such extravagance is inappropriate in light of the country’s ongoing financial dependence.

The latest support is the $86 million from Australia which was signed on Monday.

“And here our ministers are wining and dining themselves at Suva’s most expensive hotel for no reason at all,” Mr Chaudhry said.

“Where did the money come from, Mr Rabuka? The nation cannot even afford to pay a minimum wage of $5 an hour to our lowest paid workers – they have to wait another 9 months to get the $5/hour.

“Isn’t this sickening evidence of a Coalition of ministers who are all about enriching themselves, throwing lavish parties to entertain themselves and simply having a grand time laced with numerous overseas junkets? The rest of the nation can struggle on, regardless, for all they care.

“Aren’t these ministers already paid super salaries and allowances for the work they are supposed to be doing?

“From August 1 (today) they will be getting another massive increase to their salaries, perks and allowances which they arbitrarily and stubbornly awarded themselves despite the fierce outrage of the nation. Wasn’t this undeserved booty enough?”

Mr Chaudhry said that this is the first time since Fiji’s independence that such ‘parties’ have been organised for Ministers and Assistant Ministers.

“Who paid for this expensive extravaganza? The taxpayer, of course!” he said.

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