The president of the People’s Alliance New Zealand (PANZ), Sai Lelea, has urged the party to enhance its political management during the recent general assembly held in Lautoka. He emphasized that transparency and accountability should be central to their governance approach.
Mr. Lelea pointed out that there is an increasing perception that the party’s leadership often finds itself in a reactive mode, focused on crisis management instead of proactively leading. This, he indicated, diverts Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and other ministers from defining the necessary vision and direction for the party. He called for the establishment of systems that would minimize such distractions and allow leaders the latitude to guide effectively.
He stressed the need for government ministers to promote open communication, making essential policies and programs straightforward and accessible to all citizens, regardless of their location. It is crucial that every Fijian has access to clear information about government actions.
To further improve governance, Mr. Lelea proposed the hiring of political experts to advise ministers. These advisors, appointed according to civil service standards, would provide essential guidance and expertise, helping ministers concentrate on serving the public effectively.
Additionally, he recommended that a regular schedule for ministerial engagement with overseas voters be implemented. Using platforms like radio programs and Zoom sessions, the government could keep these citizens informed and facilitate direct communication, thereby maintaining a connection between them and Fiji.
Mr. Lelea highlighted the importance of creating an inclusive environment where all citizens, both at home and abroad, feel respected and heard. He stressed the necessity of leading with vision rather than merely responding to challenges and noted that overseas voters, especially those in New Zealand and Australia, are deeply connected to their homeland and should not be neglected.
He advocated for continuous engagement with overseas communities, insisting that officials should not wait until election season to reach out. Regular visits and interactions would acknowledge the valuable insights and support these voters provide.
In this digital age, Mr. Lelea noted that distance should no longer be a hindrance. He encouraged the use of technological tools to involve overseas citizens in discussions about significant legislative changes and reforms, fostering a two-way dialogue that would enhance democracy and keep the government aligned with the perspectives of all Fijians.