Market vendor calls for Government intervention

A 55-year-old Lautoka market vendor is calling on Government to intervene following a sharp increase in his electricity and security bills, which now total $606 a month.

Saiyad Mohammed raised his concerns on Friday, saying the rising costs are placing significant financial pressure on low-income earners, retirees, and market vendors struggling to meet daily expenses.

Mr Mohammed said the security bill alone amounts to $375, while his normal electricity bill is around $211.

“The security bill is unaffordable for poor people, especially those who are retired or have limited income,” he said.

He explained that despite consistently paying his electricity bills for the past 11 months without any arrears, the sudden increase has become difficult to manage.

Mr Mohammed currently sells green vegetables at the Lautoka Market, purchasing produce directly from farmers.

He works only on Saturdays and Sundays and earns an average weekly profit of about $200, which he says must cover groceries, utility bills, transportation, and other household expenses.

Previously employed at Tropic Furniture, Mr Mohammed now supports a large household that includes his 54-year-old wife, who is currently ill, his 79-year-old father, his daughter, son-in-law, and grandson.

“The rising fuel prices and transportation costs are also affecting my finances.

Everything has become more expensive, and it is hard for people earning $5 an hour to pay such high bills,” he said.

Appeal

Mr Mohammed is now appealing to Government to consider subsidising or covering security-related charges for vulnerable and low-income citizens in the upcoming 2026–2027 National Budget.

“Government should consider subsidising or covering the security bill for low-income and vulnerable citizens,” he said.

Mr Mohammed said he will continue to advocate for support for market vendors and poor families facing high utility costs.

He also called on Government to introduce policy changes in the upcoming National Budget to ease the financial burden on struggling households.

His appeal reflects the growing concerns among market vendors and working-class families over the rising cost of living and the increasing pressure on utility expenses.