Minister for Fisheries Alitia Bainivalu has responded to the growing concerns regarding the recent increases in electricity tariffs, highlighting the essential duty of elected officials to represent the interests of ordinary Fijians while also respecting the independence of regulatory bodies.
Bainivalu underscored the critical function of the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission, noting that such independent institutions are integral to upholding democratic values. Nevertheless, she emphasized that ministers have a responsibility to spotlight relevant issues impacting the lives of citizens.
She referred to Public Works Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau’s comments on the tariff hike, interpreting them as a genuine expression of the pressures faced by families, small businesses, and primary producers amid rising living costs, rather than a political maneuver.
The Minister asserted the importance of electricity as a fundamental service, indicating that higher energy prices would inevitably lead to increased costs for basic necessities, thereby straining the finances of families, farmers, fishers, and small enterprises.
Bainivalu called for improved consultations prior to implementing decisions that could affect the entire nation, arguing that while tariff changes are often based on technical assessments, it is the citizens who bear the impact. She advocated for more public discussions to enhance transparency and trust in the decision-making process.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to serving its citizens, she expressed her intention to be a spokesperson for the community and to elevate their concerns, particularly when policies add additional burdens to their livelihoods. Bainivalu concluded by reiterating that the government’s primary duty is to prioritize the interests of the populace within national policy frameworks.
This perspective aligns with a broader shift within the government towards ensuring that the needs and challenges of citizens are acknowledged and addressed, fostering optimism for a more inclusive and accountable governance approach in these challenging economic times.