Opposition MP Jone Usamate has criticised the Government following a sharp increase in fuel prices, describing it as a “betrayal of public trust”.
In a statement, Mr Usamate said the latest adjustments marked the highest single-month fuel price increase recorded in Fiji.
“This is the highest single-month jump ever recorded in Fiji’s history—diesel has jumped 35 per cent and kerosene has skyrocketed by 42 per cent,” he said.
He also highlighted increases in pump prices, noting petrol rose by 49 cents while diesel increased by 75 cents.
Mr Usamate said the surge contradicted recent assurances by Government leaders.
He claimed that Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka had earlier indicated there would be no increase in fuel prices, while Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel had suggested no hike would occur before May.
“Yet, just two weeks later, Fijians are reeling from the largest monthly increase in our history,” he said.
Mr Usamate said the increase, which he claimed exceeded spikes seen during the 2022 global energy crisis, would place additional pressure on households.
“By ignoring their own promises and failing to shield citizens from an extreme spike, this administration has shown a total disregard for the financial reality facing every household,” he said.
He called for stronger Government action to prioritise the needs of ordinary Fijians.
