Kumar Fires Back at Finance Minister

Minister for Finance Biman Prasad is facing criticism for downplaying serious concerns over delayed Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) contributions for teachers.

In response to media questions on Monday regarding salary and FNPF delays, Mr Prasad claimed that “one or two teachers are making a big deal” and accused the media of exaggerating the situation.

Opposition Member of Parliament Premila Kumar responded strongly, labelling Mr Prasad’s comments as misleading and false.

“This is not a media stunt,” Ms Kumar said.

“This is a serious matter of financial rights, transparency and respect for those who educate our future generations.”

Her remarks followed reports from the Fiji Teachers Union (FTU), and Fijian Teachers Association (FTA), which revealed that some teachers experienced salary and FNPF payment delays lasting up to two months.

In a separate statement, Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro attributed the salary delays to unsigned appointment letters.

Ms Kumar, however, said Mr Prasad’s dismissive response was deeply concerning.

“To suggest that only one or two teachers are affected shows just how out of touch this Government is with the realities facing our hardworking educators,” she said.

“The truth is that FNPF contributions have been delayed for all teachers across Fiji since January 2025—a delay of over two months. And since then, silence.”

She went on to question Government’s commitment to transparency, stating that while Mr Prasad was correct in saying teachers would not lose their savings or interest, the issue extended beyond interest alone.

According to Ms Kumar, FNPF contributions must be updated monthly so that members can access funds for critical needs like housing or education.

“For many families, every cent matters,” she said.

“These delays could determine whether a family can secure a home based on the total FNPF balance or for any other purpose under which withdrawals can be made.”

Feedback: shratika.naidu@fijisun.com.fj