‘Act on constructive criticism’
FORMER Cabinet Minister Parveen Bala says the Coalition Government must act on constructive criticism to correct their failures and provide pathways towards progress and nation building.
Mr Bala outlined a litany of issues, which he stated showed how different things are on the ground, as compared with the rosy picture painted by the Government.
“Some of the members of the Coalition Government has shown itself to be arrogant, irresponsible and entitled in the last 14 months,” he said.
The FijiFirst Member of Parliament said this was shown in policy matters, following the applications in rule of law, or the personal conduct of ministers and members.
He claimed these members had acted in ways that made a mockery of the people “whose money they are throwing around”.
Mr Bala also questioned the Coalition
Government’s priorities, citing the example of plans to rebuild the Penang Sugar Mill.
“The problem is that instead of fixing problems for the farmers, you want to burden them even further, just so that you can build a mill just to keep your election promises.
“Just to add on sugar matters, when we were in government, we were criticised for appointing the former ANZ CEO as the chairman of FSC because he was residing overseas.
“We ask, what is the situation now? And whether the chairman resides here or in overseas.”
“His Excellency the President also mentioned an increase in cane production to 1.8 million tonnes in 2024 season, compared to 1.6 million tonnes in 2022. Madam Deputy Speaker, I ask, where are the figures for 2023?
“After talking to farmers, there has to be a miracle to produce 1.8 million tonnes this season.”