Don’t Use Fuel Crisis for Political Gain, Prasad Tells Politicians

Former Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Professor Biman Prasad, has asked politicians to refrain from using the pain and suffering of people to increase their political mileage, warning that such behaviour is both underhanded and dishonest.

Professor Prasad said the current fuel situation is not unique to Fiji, but part of a global crisis affecting countries around the world.

He pointed to rising fuel prices in countries like Australia and elsewhere, where governments are also grappling with supply pressures, high demand and ongoing global instability, noting that no country has been spared.

Professor Prasad stressed that blaming Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka or the Government for the increases is “plainly dishonest”, as the price pressures are driven by international factors beyond Fiji’s control.

“This is not something created locally. It is a global issue,” he said.

He warned that even if international conflicts were resolved immediately, it would still take months, potentially up to a year, for supply chains and production to stabilise, meaning the impact will not be short-term.

Professor Prasad said what Fiji needs now is unity, not division.

“As a country, we must come together. Creating anger and frustration through misinformation will only make things worse,” he said.

He also called for clear communication and a structured national response, including contingency planning, protection of energy supply, and support for key sectors such as public transport.

Professor Prasad added that while there may be calls to remove fuel taxes or VAT, this would not stop prices from rising due to global market forces, and could instead reduce government revenue needed to support vulnerable communities.

He emphasised the importance of targeted assistance, business continuity planning and safeguarding jobs during this period.

Professor Prasad pleaded with all Fijians to remain patient and focused, stressing that the situation requires careful, long-term planning rather than short-term political reactions.