Opposition Member of Parliament Ketan Lal delivered a scathing critique of the Coalition Government in Parliament yesterday, describing it as failing to deliver on promises and worsening conditions for ordinary Fijians.
He claimed that the Coalition Government was becoming a dysfunctional and delusional government, one that had failed to deliver on the promises it made to the people before the election.
“Instead, what we have witnessed over the past three years is a government that has managed to turn everything into uncertainty, confidence into doubt, and progress into stagnation,” Mr Lal said.
He warned that the government’s failings were evident in daily life, from rising costs of living to failing infrastructure.
“GDP figures don’t cook dinner. Press releases by this government don’t pay rent. Slogans by these ministers don’t reduce school expenses.”
He said the Coalition Government had also failed to maintain public trust.
“No minister is above the Constitution. No government is bigger than the law. No political deal is stronger than the nation’s supreme legal document.”
He urged that accountability be consistent and independent institutions be respected.
Mr Lal highlighted specific issues affecting citizens, including traffic congestion, flooding, poorly maintained roads, and struggling industries.
“Our copra industry should be revived with more eloquent government support and subsidy for machineries including bore holes and copra dryers.”
“I urge government to reduce the VAT to 9 per cent and also remove 20c tax on fuel.”
“Fix the basics. Follow the Constitution. Respect the people. Or the people will replace you.”
