Opposition MP Jone Usamate has urged the Government to prioritize balance, transparency, and consistency in its communication with the public. His comments come in light of Information Minister Lynda Tabuya’s update in Parliament, where he supported corrective actions against misinformation but raised doubts about the Government’s true commitment to transparency. Usamate emphasized the importance of evidence behind government claims and criticized the prevalence of statements lacking factual basis. He highlighted historical misstatements about provincial councils that date back decades, with ongoing reforms.
Usamate expressed support for the digitization of information and initiatives aimed at countering misinformation but insisted that transparency is not only about perception but also action. He questioned the necessity of having both a minister and an assistant minister in the Ministry of Information, given its relatively small workforce, suggesting inefficiency within high-level governance. He noted, “We are one of the countries with the most ministers per capita,” implying that certain ministers may struggle to manage their portfolios independently.
His call for providing the complete truth—not just selective truths—was a central theme of his statement, urging for a clearer understanding of governmental actions and intentions. Usamate’s remarks resonate with previous criticisms he has made about the government’s handling of various issues, including the significance of accountability in governance.
Similar critiques from past discussions illustrate a consistent pattern in Usamate’s advocacy for strengthened institutional integrity. As he continues to address these vital issues, there remains hope that such dialogues will promote greater accountability and encourage constructive responses from the government, ultimately leading to improved public trust in political leadership. This potential for enhanced governance may empower citizens and foster a healthier political discourse in Fiji.
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