President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu recently inaugurated the 2026 session of Parliament, underscoring key themes of economic recovery, the escalating cost of living, and the importance of inclusive growth for the nation of Fiji. In his address to Members of Parliament, he emphasized the country’s ongoing efforts to navigate through global challenges while striving to ensure that economic progress translates into real benefits for households.
“The recovery from recent global shocks continues, and our focus remains on addressing the rising cost of living, ensuring economic growth leads to genuine improvements in household well-being,” Ratu Naiqama articulated. He highlighted findings from the household income and expenditure survey, indicating that before the pandemic, a significant segment of the population lived below the poverty line, while another 25 percent were on the brink of poverty, experiencing hardship in both urban and rural areas.
These statistics call for the development of equitable policies that are well-targeted and evidence-based. The President noted that the government’s agenda for 2026 and beyond aims not just for economic growth, but for growth that generates quality jobs, safeguards the vulnerable, and invests in the capabilities of the population.
Ratu Naiqama outlined three guiding principles for the government’s initiatives: unity and diversity, ensuring that all citizens share in national progress regardless of their background; sustainability and resilience, focusing on the protection of people, the economy, and the environment for future generations; and integrity and good governance, which aims to bolster trust in public institutions and leadership.
These principles will serve as a framework for the formulation of legislation, budgetary decisions, institutional reforms, and public policy across all sectors. This thoughtful approach aims to steer national decision-making in the coming years, ensuring that all Fijians can partake in the nation’s progress and prosperity. The President’s forward-looking vision offers hope for a more inclusive and sustainable future for all citizens.