SODELPA is calling on the Fijian Government to take immediate diplomatic action regarding the US deportation policy, which poses serious risks to Fiji’s security and economic stability.
In a statement, SODELPA Leader Aseri Radrodro says the current policy threatens to deport hardworking Fijian caregivers - who provide essential health care in the US while also sending high-risk criminals back to Fiji without proper security measures.
He says given Fiji’s strong diplomatic alignment with the US and Israel, our nation must leverage this relationship to negotiate exemptions for our people.
Radrodro says Fijian caregivers in the US play a crucial role in the healthcare system, addressing labour shortages while contributing over $500 million in annual remittances to Fiji’s economy.
He adds their deportation would not only disrupt healthcare services in the US but weaken Fiji’s financial stability.
SODELPA is urging the Fijian Government to engage with the US administration, including pro-Israel lobbying groups, to secure exemptions for caregivers and essential workers, ensure legal pathways for Fijians working in critical sectors to remain in the US and safeguard remittances that support thousands of Fijian families.
The SODELPA Leader is calling for immediate action and says that Fiji has proven itself to be a steadfast ally of the US, even when it meant standing alone on key international issues.
Radrodro says now, it is time for the US to recognise Fiji’s contribution and reciprocate through diplomatic goodwill.
He says SODELPA stands firm in defending the safety and economic well-being of Fiji and its people.
He adds the Fijian Government must act swiftly and strategically to protect our caregivers, secure economic stability and prevent our nation from becoming a dumping ground for transnational criminals.
We have sought a response from the Prime Minister. He is yet to respond.
