Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry has strongly criticised the recent fuel price increase, describing it as a “callous betrayal” of ordinary Fijians.
In a statement, Mr Chaudhry questioned the timing of the hike, noting that it came shortly after assurances from Government leaders that fuel prices would remain stable.
“This is not good enough,” he said.
“With the untold burden that will be placed on the ordinary citizen, it is imperative that the Prime Minister or the Minister for Finance step in.”
He also raised concerns over the role of the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission, claiming the decision lacked transparency and justification.
“The decision by the FCCC is unjustified and lacks transparency. The Fiji Labour Party demands an immediate review of the fuel tax structure to provide clarity to the consumer,” Mr Chaudhry said.
Referring to earlier remarks by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Biman Prasad, Mr Chaudhry suggested that the increase may have been influenced by the need to incentivise fuel suppliers.
“This suggests that a potential motive for the price hike was for the consumer to provide that price incentive and subsequent cash flow for those large multinational corporations that control our fuel supply,” he said.
Mr Chaudhry urged Government to intervene under provisions of the FCCC Act and reconsider the adjustment, while also securing fuel supply through negotiations with suppliers.
He said the Labour Party had earlier proposed measures including temporary fuel duty reductions, shielding essential goods from shipping surcharges, and ensuring adequate reserves.
“Enough is enough,” Mr Chaudhry said.
“This government has taken the easy way out by passing the entire burden onto the consumer.”
