MP Alvick Maharaj backs Seruiratu for Prime Minister

Opposition Member of Parliament Alvick Maharaj has urged Fijians to support Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu as the next Prime Minister under the newly formed People First Party.

Speaking in Parliament today, Mr Maharaj said many people believed Mr Seruiratu was the right leader to guide the country.

“That is why just like me many Fijians believe that Hon Inia Seruiratu is the best person to lead Fiji as Prime minister.”

He called on supporters to unite behind the party and its leadership ahead of the next general election.

“Let’s join forces and vote for Hon Inia Seruiratu to lead us as prime minister under Newly formed People First Party.”

Mr Maharaj made the remarks while criticising the Government’s economic management and rising cost of living, saying many families were struggling to make ends meet.

He cited findings from the Household Income and Expenditure Survey, saying a significant portion of the population was living in poverty or just above the poverty line.

Mr Maharaj also criticised tax increases and rising costs, arguing these had added pressure on ordinary households.

He said many young people were leaving the country because they did not see a future locally.

“We hear of a vision for ‘decent work,’ yet our youth continue to migrate in ‘unprecedented demographic shifts’ because they do not see a future in the current labor market.”

Mr Maharaj also raised concerns about law and order, saying people increasingly felt unsafe in towns and cities.

The Opposition MP said issues such as drug abuse and rising HIV cases required urgent national attention.

“The expansion of HIV cases fuelled by illicit drugs is a national crisis.”

He also criticised the state of health services, particularly conditions at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital.

“CWM has never been in this mess.”

Mr Maharaj concluded by urging unity and stronger leadership as the country approaches the next election.