Opposition MP Rinesh Sharma has revealed that one of his ambitions upon entering Parliament was to one day become Fiji’s Prime Minister, saying the goal gave greater purpose to his journey as a young parliamentarian.
Speaking during the debate on the 2026–2027 National Budget on Tuesday, Sharma reflected on his early days in Parliament, recalling how he would sit at the back of the chamber and imagine what it would be like to occupy the front benches.
“When I got elected, I used to sit right at the back and I used to wonder from there, what would it feel like to sit in the front row?”
He said that as he became more familiar with Parliament, his aspirations grew.
“When I came into this august House, the purpose got deeper. I had aspirations, just like some have aspirations on the other side of the House, probably to become the Prime Minister in the next elections.”
His remarks prompted laughter and interjections across the chamber, with Manoa Kamikamica encouraging him by saying, “You can become the next Prime Minister.”
Sharma welcomed the comment, replying:
“It is a good thing!”
The Opposition MP said his political journey had not been without challenges and admitted there were times when he considered leaving Parliament altogether.
“There came to a point where I wanted to resign and even leave, because things were difficult and I thought, okay, what am I doing here because opportunities and doors were closing.”
However, Sharma said those setbacks ultimately strengthened his resolve.
“Something held me back and I came to understand that the door that was closed had shown the purpose.”
He said becoming an independent Member of Parliament had allowed him to speak more freely on issues affecting ordinary Fijians.
“The most beautiful thing that has happened was becoming an independent member, because I could raise people’s issues without receiving a long message. I could do that without being held accountable or asking anyone.”
Sharma said his experiences had reinforced his commitment to ensuring young people have greater opportunities in politics.
“By the time I leave this august Chambers, I want to ensure that the younger generation have a table, have a voice in this Chamber and a choice in the future of this nation.”
