The reform of local government laws is set to bring significant changes to the number of wards and councillors in Fiji. Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa announced these updates during a talanoa session where he provided an overview of the steps being taken towards the country’s first municipal elections in nearly 20 years.
Addressing the public, Mr. Nalumisa indicated that the government has conducted a thorough review of the Local Government Act, drawing comparisons with legislative frameworks from Australia and New Zealand. “These reforms are about ensuring Fijians have a real voice in local governance,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of a transparent and accountable local government system.
The forthcoming changes aim to create a fairer representation by adjusting the structures governing wards and councillors. In tandem with these reforms, a civic education campaign has been initiated across various municipalities, slated to continue for the next two months. This initiative is designed to prepare citizens for active participation ahead of voter registration and the elections.
While the minister expressed optimism about the new electoral framework and the overall process, he did not specify an exact date for when the long-anticipated elections will be held, leaving some uncertainties. Nonetheless, the government’s commitment to facilitating local governance reforms presents a hopeful perspective for increased civic engagement in Fiji’s democratic processes.
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