Fiji Labour Party Leader Mahendra Chaudhry says he believes the general elections is the most crucial challenge facing the people in 2022 for on it rests the future well being, security and sovereignty of our nation.
In his New Year’s message, Chaudhry says people must choose wisely taking full account of those who are aspiring to lead and their ability to deliver.
He says as we embark on a new year, people have pinned their hopes on the upcoming 2022 general elections hoping that a change of government would usher in a more caring and competent government, and a better quality of life for them.
Chaudhry says to ensure this change, the people expect opposition political parties to unite to form a common front against a failed government.
He adds they want a lineup of the best, the most experienced and talented people in the opposition to take Fiji out of its current morass, but this concept of unity has been ruled out by some opposition parties who think they can make it on their own.
Chaudhry says he believes our borders must now stay open to facilitate economic recovery and the tourism industry must get back on its feet, allowing workers to return to their jobs.
He further says people in need of support should be looked after by the State now that it is getting the necessary financial assistance from outside, instead of pushing a large part of the burden on civil society.
Chaudhry says he also questions for how long can Fiji continue to rely on neighbours which is Australia and New Zealand for budget support as the major concern is the deteriorating economic state of the nation.
He also questions for how long can a nation continue to borrow to stay above water and are we not putting to risk our national sovereignty.
He says at the time the COVID crisis hit Fiji, we were in no position to cushion ourselves against its devastating impact, particularly as the tourism industry came to a halt.
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