PM: BUDGET FOR ALL FIJIANS

‘The increasing number of Fijians getting the vaccination shows that anti-vaxxers are fiGHtING A LOsING BAttLE.’

The 2021-2022 National Budget is hard to criticise and it offers many benefits for ordinary Fijians, says Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama.

While some Fijians have criticised Government’s response, he said, they had to ensure all options were explored.

“We were at a snail pace because we did not want to leave any stone unturned when we were planning for the next financial year,” Mr Bainimarama said.

“And make no mistake; on Friday, the Attorney General and Minister for Economy delivered a budget that will be hard to criticise.

“There are so many benefits for ordinary Fijians and I will run out of time if I list them all.

“Some claim that Government leadership has disappeared. They must have had their blinkers on.”

Mr Bainimarama will explain more about the National Budget on Sunday July 25th on his Lalakai Radio Programme.

Anti-Vaxxers

He praised the virtual discussions hosted by medical personnel from various provinces to debunk antivaxxers.

“The increasing number of Fijians getting the vaccination shows that anti-vaxxers are fighting a losing battle,” he said, while encouraging Fijians not to miss the opportunity to participate in the discussions.

“This week a local anti-vaxxer was ordered by the Court to deactivate her Facebook account and was warned not to put up any Facebook post. Three Sundays ago, I had mentioned that because of the

misinformation perpetrated by that person, the Police would eventually deal with her.

“It was laid bare this week with the court’s decision. We won this battle, but the war remains our priority.”

5pm to 5am Curfew

The Bose Vanua o Ra led by the Tui Nalawa were acknowledged for enhancing their COVID-containment measures.

All villages have been strictly instructed to follow a 5pm-5am curfew.

Mr Bainimarama said such actions are reassuring as they ultimately contribute to Fiji’s road to recovery.

COVID-War

He is confident that the war against COVID-19 will soon be won.

“… we need to win the war against COVID, we must win it, and we will win it. I remain confident and so must you. Do not be swept away by the winds of doubt, but remain firm with a strong conviction. Stay the course with me.

“We will continue to make haste slowly – steady and sure with decisive leadership.”

In order to relax COVID-safe measures, Mr Bainimarama said Fiji needs to achieve herd immunity.

He also reiterated the message by the Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete who said: “No one who has been vaccinated twice has died from COVID-19.

“Those refusing the vaccination are playing with fire.”