Opposition MP Premila Kumar has criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for what she describes as politically motivated moves concerning the proposed review of Fiji’s fiscal year. Kumar characterized the initiative as an unnecessary change, calling it “fixing what isn’t broken” and labeling it a “costly distraction” from more pressing issues facing the nation, including poverty, unemployment, rising crime, drug issues, and climate-related risks.
Kumar expressed that the current August–July fiscal year has effectively allowed the government to manage vulnerabilities, particularly with regard to natural disasters. Introduced in 2016, this fiscal adjustment was strategically aligned with Fiji’s cyclone season, enabling better accounting for disaster damage and the allocation of rebuilding funds ahead of the new budget cycle. She emphasized that the previous arrangement was not merely a political decision but rather a demonstration of smart governance tailored to the realities of climate challenges.
Kumar also raised concerns about the potential complications that could arise from shifting the fiscal year closer to the November-January period, noting that this timeframe coincides with school holidays, festive occasions, and generally slower operational periods for public services. “Those are already our least productive months,” she stated, arguing that introducing budget launches and implementation during this time would lead to delays and reduce fiscal discipline.
Furthermore, Kumar questioned the government’s assertions regarding enhanced cash flow and coordination, demanding evidence to support claims that this change would lower the cost of living, generate employment, or improve disaster resilience. “Instead, we risk transition chaos and further bureaucracy,” she warned.
She observed that many countries adjust their fiscal cycles based on economic realities rather than calendar years, insisting that Fiji had previously set a precedent in aligning its fiscal framework with its unique needs. Kumar described the proposed changes as a “regression,” affirming that the opposition would remain vigilant in holding the government accountable. “Fijians deserve real solutions, not symbolic reversals,” she stated resolutely, underscoring her belief that true leadership should prioritize the needs of the people over political expediency.