Editorial: Public Backlash Cannot Be Ignored

Bad blood is already brewing along the corridors of power after last Friday’s Parliamentary decision to pump salaries and benefits of Members of Parliament, the President and the Speaker.

The fragile three-legged stool must seriously take heed of the noise and criticisms from disgruntled Fijians over the past six days.

The uproar is unlike what we’ve seen before.

It is loud, angry and disappointed. Commentators were on the ball as we’ve highlighted over the past six days, it is not the right time to make such a move.

For now, the Government seems to be backtracking on its “unfazed” decision.

Singing the same tune are the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka and chair of the Special Committee on Emoluments, Lynda Tabuya.

The narrative now is that due processes have to be followed before increases can be authorised which include amendments to the Parliamentary Remunerations Act of 2014.

But didn’t the 40 MPs decide that in Parliament after adopting the Special Committee on Emoluments Report which was tabled on Wednesday 22nd May, 2024?

Those in the political circles for years have been scratching their heads these past few days trying to make sense of this most recent back to front scenario.

For the lay person, this is how it looks like right now:

(1) A motion is passed in Parliament to change salaries and allowance for members of Parliament and executive office,

(2) It will be published in the Gazette not later than 14 days

(3) We will go back to the public to hear their views after a Bill is passed to amend the Parliamentary Remunerations Act 2014.

This will be prepared by the Solicitor General’s Office.

THE PARLIAMENTARY REMUNERATIONS ACT 2014 SECTION 15:

Publication of Determinations

15 (1) The Secretary-General must, after a determination is made by Parliament –

Give each of the following persons, at the same time, a copy of the determination

(i) The President;

(ii) The Prime Minister;

(iii) The Speaker;

(iv) The Leader of Opposition

(v) The leader of any other Parties represented in Parliament; and

(vi) any independent Member of Parliament; and publish the determination in the Gazette not later than 14 days after the date on which a copy of it is given to the persons specified in paragraph (a).

(2) The Secretary-General to Parliament must ensure that a copy of the determination is publicly available within 15 days after publication in the Gazette.

While the legal eagles’ interpretations may differ, one thing is clear - there is discontent brewing among Fijians following last Friday’s decision.

The criticisms and backlash cannot be ignored. Government must address the growing concerns now!!

Among the Coalition Government, Mr Rabuka’s favourite motto rings true - Let Love shine!.

Feedback: maikeli.vesikula@fijisun.com.fj