Minister Defends Record, Hits Back at Criticism from Opposition MP

Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu has defended her ministry’s record, responding strongly to recent criticism from Opposition Member of Parliament Ketan Lal.

In a social media statement, Minister Bainivalu dismissed claims that she has been inactive since taking office, pointing out that she was only sworn in on June 28, 2024.

“Maybe you didn’t notice because you’re too busy chasing clout online,” she said in response to MP Lal’s accusation of her being “silent” for two years.

Minister Bainivalu listed a series of key initiatives her ministry has undertaken in less than a year, including:

Distribution of fiberglass boats and fishing gear to coastal communities.

Launch of the National Fisheries Policy 2024–2028, aimed at promoting sustainability and industry growth.

Finalisation of the Aquaculture Development Plan 2024–2028 to boost local farming and food security.

Enactment of Fiji’s first Aquaculture Act 2024, establishing legal standards for the sector.

Hosting of the 21st Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, enhancing Fiji’s leadership in regional tuna management.

A sustainable pine harvesting partnership in Kadavu generating over $500,000 for landowners.

Forestry sector contributions of over $140 million in earnings and job creation.

Progress on the national tree-planting campaign, with over 19 million trees planted.

Advancements in the REDD+ programme with the World Bank, securing carbon income and international recognition.

Responding to MP Lal’s comments on issues such as VAT and infrastructure, Bainivalu said these do not fall under her ministry’s jurisdiction.

She also criticised the former government’s handling of the Nabavatu relocation issue, where villagers remain in temporary shelters since 2020. “You said nothing,” she said, contrasting her actions with what she described as Lal’s “Facebook politics.”

“The people see the difference,” Bainivalu added. “One of us is building. One of us is blogging.”