NAMOSI’s paramount chief Ratu Suliano Matanitobua says he is hopeful that the upcoming national budget will reflect the urgent health and security needs of the country.
In an interview this week, Ratu Suliano called for increased allocations to the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Home Affairs and Policing, citing the importance of sustained awareness campaigns and better service delivery across communities.
He stressed the importance of these increments particularly in the fight against HIV and drug abuse.
“I hope they will increase the budget for the Ministry of Health, especially, and also the Ministry of Policing,” he said.
“There is work to be done, very important work, and those funds can help in raising awareness and bringing a healthier Fiji.”
He confirmed that these concerns have been raised at the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC), and that further discussions are expected to take place in the coming week.
“Maybe next week we’ll sit down, myself, the chairman and the deputies and talk on important issues concerning the people.
“We will look at the issues across the 14 provinces. But on my agenda, it’s HIV and drugs. It will be the headline.”
According to Ratu Suliano, a formal paper on the matter is being prepared ahead of the next GCC meeting.
He said he would support any budget submission that directly addresses community needs.
“I know the budget finances will go into the various ministries, but I will definitely support any submission related to the issues of the people.
“The people need to come first.”
The national budget is expected to be announced on June 27.
