PM rejects claims of election positioning

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has dismissed claims that the Government is attending grassroots events as part of an election strategy ahead of the next General Election.

Speaking while opening the Cakaudrove Provincial Council Meeting at Korotasere, Vaturova, yesterday, Mr Rabuka said suggestions that Government leaders were attending such meetings for political gain were unfounded.

“We are now hearing that we are purposely attending these meetings as a political move given that the election is near,” he said.

“Let me clear that up by saying that I could never do that. I will always await an official invitation before attending an event as such and I am grateful to your committee for extending that invitation.”

Mr Rabuka commended the people of Cakaudrove for their resilience and commitment to development despite ongoing economic and social challenges.

"Rural development cannot be achieved by government alone."

He emphasised that sustained progress depended on the active support and participation of local communities, traditional leaders and the vanua.

Mr Rabuka urged district representatives to maintain the spirit of collaboration to drive further socio-economic growth across the province.

A range of issues was discussed during the provincial council meeting, including finances, development priorities and reports from various committees, including youth and women's representatives.

“We had our agenda ready with focus on the provincial finance and development. We have six main committees that will be giving their respective reports today (yesterday) and tomorrow (today),” said Cakaudrove Provincial Council chairman Sirilo Vukica.

During the dialogue session, district representatives also raised issues relating to electricity, roads and improved healthcare facilities.

Also present at the opening of the meeting were Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Filimoni Vosarogo, Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Mosese Bulitavu, Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu and Minister for Policing and Communications Ioane Naivalurua.

The meeting concludes today.