Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry says people not being able to get through to the 161 food hotline and 158 COVID helpline is “inexcusable”, especially in a time of national crisis.
He claimed both numbers were not working yesterday morning as dozens of people from critical lockdown areas in Makoi and Narere tried to get medical help or seek food supplies.
“I personally tried the numbers several times after receiving complaints from people living in Makoi and Narere and found them dead,” the former prime minister said.
“The question is: How come both lines – 158 and 161 – were simultaneously out of service? Were the lines not being monitored? Such lapses, in a situation as crucial as what we are facing, are inexcusable.”
He called on the authorities to put their act together and focus on serving the people.
When contacted yesterday morning, Health Ministry permanent secretary Dr James Fong said due to a huge influx of calls, the line had crashed but work was being done to urgently rectify the issue.
Government issued a statement yesterday afternoon, advising Fijians who can’t get through on 161 to alternatively email their details to covid19rations@gmail.com
The request must include the following details: your name, address, Suva-Nausori Lockdown Zone, mobile number and number of household members. Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum called on those requesting for food packs to be honest.
