Opposition Questions Fuel Price Hike Timing, Calls for Immediate Tax Removal

Opposition Member of Parliament, Vijay Nath, questioned the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) regarding the timing of its announcement of a significant fuel price increase, which occurred at 7:35 PM.

Call for Emergency Bill to Eliminate Fuel Tax

Nath advocated for an emergency bill to eliminate the 20-cent fuel tax. He stated that if the government prioritized the public's struggles, this duty would be removed immediately to mitigate the impact of the price hike.

The Opposition MP emphasized that taxing the populace, especially the poor and hardworking, is not a solution to a crisis.

Contradictory Government Assurances

Nath highlighted previous assurances from government officials. He noted that Minister for Finance, Esrom Immanuel, had publicly stated that prices would remain constant until May. Additionally, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka had reportedly assured the public there would be no increase.

Criticism of Announcement Method and Impact

Nath described the announcement as a sudden action impacting Fijian families. He argued that releasing such information with only four hours' notice was an inappropriate way to treat citizens.

He characterized a 75-cent increase in diesel and a 71-cent increase in kerosene as irresponsible, stating it directly affects the average person's finances.

Nath added that the public had no opportunity to prepare while the government possessed this data. He further stated that school buses, farmers, and market vendors are significantly affected by these changes.

Responses from the Prime Minister and the Minister for Finance have been sought but are not yet available.