In government’s spending plan of $4.8billion in the new financial year, the island of Rabi has been allocated just 0.005 per cent or less, according to the Banaban Human Rights Defenders’ Network.
Its representative Rae Bainteti made this comment while raising concerns over the promises made by the Coalition Government in 2022.
Mr Bainteti said the Government had previously pledged to reinstate and fund the Rabi Council Leaders elections, but many argued that the current allocation did not meet those commitments.
“A portion of the shared budget has been earmarked for the maintenance of the Rabi Wharf, a move that critics believe diverges from the island’s immediate needs,” he said.
This misalignment, he said, could only be addressed once the full council was elected, allowing for more focused decisions that prioritised the island’s most urgent concerns.
“It’s disappointing to see such a small amount directed to Rabi when the Government promised to support our electoral process.
“We need more clarity on how these funds are being used and a commitment to fulfilling the promises made.”
As the budget debate continues in Parliament, the network has called for greater accountability and transparency in the allocation of funds.
He urged the Government to provide clearer explanations regarding how the budget is being distributed.
