Mohammed Hassan Khan, a member of the National Council of Older Persons (NCOP), has expressed deep concern regarding the escalating difficulties faced by senior citizens in Fiji, stressing the immediate necessity for improved social and economic safeguards. He argues that pensions, which serve as a vital safety net, must be raised to keep pace with the soaring cost of living that many older citizens are currently facing.
Khan asserted that pensioners who depend on modest pensions, family support, or dwindling savings are finding it increasingly challenging to sustain their livelihoods amid rising prices. He brought attention to the increasing costs of essentials such as fuel, food, and transportation, compounded by the enduring effects of the global financial crisis and the depreciation of the Fijian dollar. Citing the current inflation rate, which has severely eroded purchasing power, Khan insisted that at least a 20 percent increase in pensions and allowances is crucial for a significant improvement in the living standards of elderly citizens.
In a poignant critique, Khan denounced the 2012 decision to reduce pensions from the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF). He argued that individuals who have made contributions for years deserve the stability of secure income during retirement. He questioned the use of funds deposited by FNPF members, which have been allocated for investments and loans, leaving many pensioners concerned about the returns on their lifetime contributions.
Khan underscored that pensions transcend mere financial support; they are essential for ensuring dignity, independence, and stability for older individuals. He highlighted their crucial role in alleviating poverty and minimizing familial dependency, allowing seniors to live with the freedom they deserve.
He urged for immediate actions to enhance the welfare of elderly Fijians, including the introduction of free medical services, tax concessions for families caring for seniors, a minimum monthly allowance of $200 for those without income, subsidized transport, and the elimination of taxes on retirement savings. Khan firmly stated that the moment for action has arrived, advocating for pensions to be recognized as a fundamental right.
In closing, he reiterated the importance of increasing pensions to secure income and uphold the dignity of Fiji’s older population, reinforcing the essential role that social support systems play in nurturing a compassionate and equitable society. There is hope that through these proposed measures, the challenges facing senior citizens can be addressed, paving the way for a better quality of life for this vulnerable demographic.