Prof. Prasad concentrates on budget, makes no comments on the gazetted increases

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad says the government’s focus now is on the next budget, and whatever policies and decisions by the government are bound to have supporters and also those that will be against it.

Professor Prasad highlighted this when questioned by fijivillage News on his stand after the increase in the salaries and benefits of the President, Speaker, members of cabinet and Parliament were gazetted last Thursday without public consultations and a Bill to be taken to parliament.

Professor Prasad says he has said everything in Parliament, and he will leave it at that.

While speaking on behalf of the 5 NFP Members of Parliament, Professor Prasad had said that when the Parliamentary Emoluments Committee report came out, they were to take it back to the NFP Management Board as the decision of the NFP was that the MPs should not recommend increases to their own salaries.

Professor Prasad said their position on this matter is in accordance with the directive of the party.

Professor Prasad said the NFP earlier voted against the increase in allowances as it was determined by the FijiFirst Government, and also does not support the proposed increases in the report this time.

When questioned on his message to the people, Professor Prasad says this is a government which has provided absolute freedom, openness and transparency about how they do things in the country.

The 2024/2025 National Budget will be delivered at 10am on Friday June 28th.