The Permanent Secretary of the Justice Ministry, Selina Kuruleca, has emphasized the need for inclusivity and democratic participation in the electoral reform process in Fiji. Speaking at an orientation for newly appointed part-time commissioners, who will be involved in reviewing and reforming electoral legislation, Kuruleca stressed that historically marginalized groups often doubt the legitimacy of systems they do not contribute to.
“We are beginning a process where citizens will be able to discuss the rules and suggest ways to amend them legitimately,” she noted, describing this initiative as a step towards pluralism that seeks to establish a democratic foundation built on justice, equality, and human rights.
Kuruleca urged the commissioners to build coalitions and engage with diverse perspectives, highlighting that these relationships are crucial in democracy. She remarked, “It’s about recognizing that in a democracy, alliances are vital, and we must create space for various voices to be heard.”
This reform process aligns with the Coalition Government’s commitment to uphold democratic values, as outlined during cabinet meetings earlier this year. Significant emphasis is placed on ensuring that reforms respond to the needs of ordinary citizens and result in a fairer electoral system that values the dignity of each individual.
The process is designed to involve extensive stakeholder consultations, aiming to capture a broad spectrum of opinions on the existing electoral framework. The goal is to produce reports and legislation that truly reflect the voice of the people, summarized by the phrase, “nothing about us, without us.”
This initiative also underscores recent discussions around the urgency of enhancing electoral integrity in Fiji, particularly with regard to women’s representation and improving public trust in democratic processes. By fostering significant reforms, Fiji is taking hopeful strides toward establishing a robust democratic framework that engages all citizens and strengthens its governance.
Overall, these efforts not only reflect a commitment to inclusivity but also signal a bright future where each Fijian’s voice is acknowledged in the political landscape. Through meaningful reforms, the nation aims to create an electoral environment that resonates with the aspirations of its people.
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