THE Government is continuing to “spend money to earn money” as it prioritises investments aimed at benefiting Fijians.
Prime Minister and People’s Alliance leader Sitiveni Rabuka defended the 2026–2027 National Budget, saying it was designed to deliver long-term benefits for the country rather than political gain, rejecting claims that it was a “campaign budget”.
“A campaign budget would have been a much bigger expenditure budget,” Mr Rabuka said.
“No, this isn’t a campaign budget. This is a very realistic and a very responsible budget for times such as this, and also to ensure sustainability.”
Mr Rabuka also acknowledged calls for a pay increase for civil servants but said the Government could not afford one. However, he said many commonly used household items were not expected to increase in price.
Responding to Opposition MP Premila Kumar’s criticism of what she described as an “irresponsible budget” because of its planned 70-30 operating-to-capital expenditure ratio, Mr Rabuka dismissed the concerns.
The current 2026–2027 Budget allocates about 82 per cent to operating expenditure and 18 per cent to capital expenditure.
However, the Government has set a medium-term target of shifting expenditure to a 70:30 operating-to-capital ratio by increasing investment in infrastructure and other capital projects while containing operating spending.
“You will find that we are still spending money to earn money.
“The expenditure is from our own tax collections, our revenue, as well as funding from our development partners, or jointly.”
Mr Rabuka also rejected suggestions the budget favoured the ruling Coalition, saying it was developed through consultation with Coalition partners and focused on the interests of the country.
“The budget is more on what is good for the nation rather than for the party.”
