Fiji Labour Party Leader Mahendra Chaudhry says we are celebrating not just a date in history, but the strength and spirit of our people as we commemorate the 55th anniversary of our independence.
He says Fiji’s journey since 1970 has been a testament to the resilience of its people, having endured political upheavals and economic shocks.
Chaudhry says we must acknowledge our past struggles, not to dwell on them, but to reaffirm that Fiji’s hope for the future rests in ensuring genuine progress for all.
The FLP Leader says this requires that we move firmly away from the failed policies and prejudices of the past that have stood in the way of our progress, prosperity, and unity as a nation.
He adds there is a crisis of confidence in Fiji as many skilled people continue to migrate.
Chaudhry says we are now heavily dependent on foreign workers, with about 11,500 of them working here legally and illegally.
He says we have serious governance problems where corruption is rife and there is scant respect for the rule of law.
He says it is our duty as responsible citizens to secure the future of our nation and our children, by returning Fiji to responsible governance and the rule of law.
Chaudhry also says Fiji is mired in debt while many resources remain idle or underutilised.
He adds that we want Fiji to become self-reliant with a robust economy.
Chaudhry says let us use this Fiji Day to honour the past by committing to a future defined by transparency, stability, and the realisation of our national potential.
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