Public consultations are set to take place in Fiji over the next two weeks, focusing on three pivotal pieces of legislation, including the Information Act 2018. The Fiji Law Reform Commission is leading these consultations aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and ethical standards in the country’s governance.
The consultations will continue until February 8, with online submissions starting immediately. According to a statement from the Commission, the review of the Information Act and two other legislative proposals—the Accountability and Transparency Commission Bill 2025 and the Code of Conduct Bill 2025—aims to ensure alignment with constitutional rights and international benchmarks. This process is part of Attorney General Graham Leung’s initiative to present these bills in Parliament by March.
The review of the Information Act 2018 is intended to enhance public access to information and broaden its applicability. The ATC Bill will focus on clarifying oversight objectives while incorporating existing constitutional provisions, whereas the Code of Conduct Bill will set standards for public officeholders and facilitate public access to their declarations.
This initiative follows a workshop held in December, which included participants from the media, civil society, development partners, academia, legal professionals, and political party members.
Consultation sessions will be held in various locations including Labasa, Savusavu, Lautoka, Nadi, Sigatoka, and Suva, with a virtual session scheduled for February 8. Submissions can be made through email or delivered in person at designated venues.
This effort represents a proactive approach towards a more transparent governance framework in Fiji and reflects the ongoing commitment to improving public trust and ethical governance. It emphasizes the importance of public engagement in shaping legislation that directly affects citizens, and provides a hopeful outlook for enhanced accountability moving forward.
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