Narube hits back at Biman

Unity Fiji party leader Savenaca Narube has publicly refuted accusations of economic sabotage leveled against him by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad. This comes after Professor Prasad strongly criticized Narube's remarks at the Integrity Summit in Canberra regarding Australia's budget support to Fiji.

Responding to comments from Professor Prasad and Minister for Climate Change, Mr. Molitabu Bulitavu, the former Governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji labeled them as "threats." In a statement, Narube asserted, "Their comments and threats are tactics of the former FijiFirst government, which this coalition government has deliberately retained."

Narube believes that this arrogant attitude has led to a personalized response, failing to address the actual issues at hand. "Their response is incorrect and unbecoming of their ministerial positions." He added that it is regrettable that instead of helping to enlighten the public, they have displayed a complete lack of professionalism and integrity.

Narube further clarified, "They have confirmed again to the people that they are not fit to lead this country. The facts are, firstly, I did not call for a reduction in aid from Australia. Secondly, I urged Australia to do two things – to increase aid to Fiji, especially in climate change, and to ensure that their aid is used for the right priorities."

Narube pointed out, "The Minister of Finance is perhaps feeling guilty when he says I called for a reduction in budget support, which is incorrect. What I said was that Australia should tighten the policy triggers for budget support to ensure that Fiji uses Australian taxpayers’ money wisely." He emphasized that this is in the best interest of both Australia and Fiji.