Opposition MP Parveen Bala has called on Fijians to demand greater accountability and unity from political leaders, warning that continued division could worsen the country’s social and economic challenges.
Speaking in Parliament this week, Bala said the failure of political parties to work together would have serious consequences for Fiji’s future.
He cautioned that if leaders continue to pursue narrow political interests rather than national unity, the country could face rising crime, worsening drug abuse, an escalating HIV crisis and economic instability.
“The cost of failing to unite is high,” Bala said.
“What if we continue as we are with each party pursuing its own interest, with each election deepening the divisions between our communities?”
Bala said the warning signs were already visible in struggling communities and declining social indicators, adding that Fiji would be vulnerable when the next global crisis occurs.
“If the next global shock hits – and it will hit – we will face it divided, weakened and unprepared,” he told Parliament.
He stressed that such a future was not what Fijians wanted for their children and urged leaders across the political divide to act in the national interest.
In his address, Bala also directed a message to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, urging him to consider proposals for greater cooperation between government and opposition.
“You have the power to initiate this change. You have the opportunity to be remembered as the leader who put the nation before party,” Bala said.
He said the opposition was willing to engage constructively with the government for the betterment of the country.
Bala concluded by appealing directly to the public, urging citizens to hold their representatives accountable not only for campaign promises but also for their willingness to work together.
“Tell your representatives that you are tired of divisions. Tell them that you want leaders who can sit at the same table and solve problems and not just score points,” he said.
