Opposition MP Semi Koroilavesau has accused members of the Coalition Government of relying on “old political tricks,” warning that meaningful economic reform will remain out of reach unless the entire Government embraces change.
Speaking during the debate on the 2026–2027 National Budget in Parliament, Koroilavesau said while Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel was attempting to introduce sound economic management, he could not succeed without the backing of his Cabinet colleagues.
He described the Finance Minister as a capable leader working under difficult circumstances.
“He is a good man trying to fix a broken machine.”
However, Koroilavesau argued that the Minister’s efforts were being undermined by colleagues unwilling to move away from traditional political approaches.
“One man cannot steer the ship alone when the rest of the crew is desperate to sail backward into old political tricks.”
The Opposition MP said the country needed substance rather than political performance, accusing the Government frontbench of failing to respond to the economic pressures facing ordinary Fijians.
“To the rest of the frontbench, to those who prefer performance over substance, I remind you once more, the people of Fiji are groaning and they are waking up.”
Koroilavesau also challenged Government members to confront what he described as the reality of the nation’s finances instead of dismissing criticism from across the chamber.
“If you feel exposed by these numbers and this truth, do not waste your breath shouting across the floor.”
Earlier in his address, Koroilavesau acknowledged the Finance Minister’s efforts, saying Esrom Immanuel had stepped into “a structural minefield” and was trying to bring “sobriety, technical competence, and modern economic reasoning” to Government.
His comments came as Parliament continued debating the 2026–2027 National Budget before moving into the Committee of Supply to consider the budget estimates.
