Opposition MP Alvick Maharaj has criticised the Government’s assurance that Fiji has sufficient fuel supplies, describing the statement as disconnected from the situation being experienced by motorists.

In a statement, Mr Maharaj said the Government’s message urging people not to panic buy was inconsistent with what citizens were witnessing at service stations.

“The people of Fiji are today witnessing a shameful and insulting display of political spin from a Fiji Government that is dangerously out of touch with reality,” he said.

Mr Maharaj said while the Government maintains that fuel supplies are sufficient, reports and scenes at service stations suggested otherwise.

“While the government says ‘fuel is sufficient,’ the reality on the ground is that service stations in Flagstaff are running on empty,” he said.

“While the government says there is no need to panic, the reality is cones are blocking pumps in Laucala Beach.”

He added that the presence of “out of order” signs on fuel pumps was enough to raise concerns among motorists.

“The most verified information any citizen needs is the sight of ‘OUT OF ORDER’ signs taped to fuel pumps,” Mr Maharaj said.

He argued that long queues at service stations were a reaction by people trying to ensure they can continue their daily activities.

“This is not panic buying. This is the logical reaction of citizens who need to get to work, get their children to school and run their businesses,” he said.

Mr Maharaj called on the Government to provide clear information on fuel reserves and supply.

“The Fiji Government must issue a true and accurate status report of Fiji’s fuel reserves and be transparent about any supply bottlenecks,” he said.