$886M Budget Deficit is Too Much Says Maharaj

Opposition Member of Parliament Alvick Maharaj has raised serious concerns about the government’s 2025–2026 national budget, calling the $886 million deficit “deeply troubling” and warning that it could create long-term problems for Fiji’s economy.

In a detailed statement to Duavata News, Maharaj said the size of the deficit shows that the government is spending much more than it is earning, and this could increase the country’s already high public debt.

He said this kind of budget “defers today’s bills to tomorrow,” putting extra pressure on future generations.

“The way the budget is being presented, it’s like the government is trying to show that in one year Fiji will become a developed country.

But long speeches and high estimate allocations don’t always match what is actually spent or achieved at the ministry level,” he said.

Maharaj believes the government is not striking the right balance between revenue and spending.

He said that although the government is trying to increase revenue, it still isn’t enough to meet the growing expenses.

He also questioned whether all spending is truly necessary, and asked whether taxpayers are getting good value for money.

“We hear a lot about prudent spending, but the figures say otherwise,” he said, pointing to possible waste, inefficiencies, and low-priority projects.

To fix the situation, Maharaj outlined several recommendations.

First, he said there should be a full review of government spending, with each ministry needing to justify how its budget will help the people.

He called for a shift in focus from day-to-day spending to long-term investments that will help grow the economy.

Second, he suggested improving tax collection by closing loopholes and making sure everyone pays their fair share, especially larger businesses.

He also said government-owned companies must be checked to ensure they’re helping the economy and not losing money.

Maharaj also proposed a new Fiscal Responsibility Law that would control how much debt and deficit the government is allowed to have.

This would help make future budgets more careful and transparent.

Finally, he said the government must do more to support private business, attract foreign investment, and grow sectors beyond tourism.

This would help strengthen the country’s economic base and improve long-term revenue.

He added that more public consultation is needed, saying that many people feel left out of the budgeting process.

“The current trajectory is concerning, and the government must change its fiscal strategy to one that is truly sustainable,” Maharaj said.