Editorial: Prepare Fiji now, not after the crisis

While tensions rise in the Middle East be­tween Israel and Iran - with the United States also in the conflict, Fijians expect Government to be planning for the economic effect that could follow.

Instead, this week the Coalition Government was busy with court battles, political sackings, govern­ance investigations and the endless fallout from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption saga.

This is an unwarranted distraction.

The advice of former Prime Minister and Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry should be considered.

Globally, governments are bracing themselves for a possible financial downturn because of the Mid­dle East conflict. Oil prices are increasing daily. Shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz in Iran had dropped to 20 per cent, cutting off major oil supplies. Supply chains of imported goods and foods could shrink overnight. Yet little is heard from Cabinet about any serious contingency planning.

Fiji knows too well the pain of economic shock from the COVID-19 pandemic. Another global crisis could push struggling families over the edge.

Higher fuel prices mean higher transport costs. The cost of imported goods will increase. Food, electric­ity and internet services could all be affected - even shutdown.

Leadership means anticipating danger before it ar­rives, not reacting after the damage is done.

Government must present a clear national plan now: safeguard fuel reserves, protect essential food imports and cushion households from rising costs.

The warning signs are flashing. Fiji cannot afford leaders who debate yesterday's scandals while to­morrow's crisis continues. Government should pre­pare Fiji now, not after another global crisis.