Proposed 20% MP pay cut sparks political backlash

A proposed 20 per cent pay cut for Members of Parliament has triggered a sharp political backlash.

Critics are branding the move as “theatrical” and pointing to the massive salary increases approved in 2024.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced the proposal as part of Government’s response to possible economic pressure linked to global fuel instability.

The plan will require parliamentary approval when Parliament sits at the end of this month.

However, opposition figures have questioned both the timing and credibility of the move, noting that MPs approved salary increases of about 138 per cent in 2024.

Fiji Labour Party (FLP) leader Mahendra Chaudhry described the proposal as insincere.

“The next sitting of Parliament is not until May, and approval is far from guaranteed. This so-called sacrifice is just a promise on paper,” he said.

Mr Chaudhry said the announcement ignored the fact that the same Government had earlier approved salary increases of more than 130 per cent soon after taking office.

“Now, when elections are looming and fuel prices are rising, they suddenly discover restraint.”

Unity Fiji Party leader Savenaca Narube questioned why the increases were approved in the first place.

“They should never have raised their salaries to begin with,” Mr Narube said.

“It was one of the first things they did. Now, three years later, they are talking about cutting it.”

Mr Narube said while reducing pay was a positive step, it came too late.

Opposition Member of Parliament Rinesh Sharma said the proposal should go further, including a reduction in the number of ministers and assistant ministers.

“And then I think reduction in VAT in totality would help businesses and consumers,” Mr Sharma said.

Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu said the proposal was a step in the right direction but needed ongoing review.

“20 per cent is a good start,” Mr Seruiratu said.

“But we need to keep reviewing it as the situation unfolds to make sure it meets the needs.” .

Feedback: rariqi.turner@fijisun.com.fj