Fiji is fortunate that Ratu Epeli Nailatikau was the national leader to guide the country in its time of critical transition when others may not have been brave enough to do so because it was not politically correct at that time.
Those are the words of Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama as he thanked President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau for his service to the nation as an Army Commander, a diplomat, Permanent Secretary, a minister and President.
While speaking in parliament, Bainimarama said Ratu Epeli has been a mentor to many and the Prime Minister is personally indebted to him for helping him to navigate through Fiji’s most difficult times.
Bainimarama says Ratu Epeli has not taken a single day of leave since he became President.
The Prime Minister also revealed the government’s plans for the coming year.
He says the only long term cure for poverty is strong economic growth.
Bainimarama stresses that the goal must be to eradicate poverty and have policies that assist those living in poverty.
He says this starts with education, and that has been achieved by providing fee free education.
The Prime Minister also says investment and construction continues to grow in the country. He says job offerings are up by 20 percent according to the latest Reserve Bank of Fiji survey.
Bainimarama says confidence is at an all-time high in Fiji.
He also says they will continue to invest in important areas like education, health and infrastructure.
