Fiji’s Assistant Foreign Affairs Minister, Lenora Qereqeretabua, announced that the country plans to conduct local government elections next year, which she emphasized as vital for increasing women’s involvement in politics. During a panel discussion at a women’s forum in Apia, Samoa, she pointed out the need to address the current low representation of women in Parliament and expressed hope for improvement in the upcoming elections.
Ms. Qereqeretabua highlighted that Fiji has not held local government elections since 2005 and that the forthcoming elections are seen as pivotal for women’s political participation globally. She noted that having women Members of Parliament in Fiji helps to increase visibility and engagement in the political process, which is beneficial across the Pacific.
She also mentioned a recent mock women’s parliament in Fiji that sparked greater interest among women in politics, reporting over 100 applicants for 58 positions, including roles in opposition, government, and the speaker’s position. While acknowledging that the representation of women in Parliament remains low, she encouraged women to pave the way for future generations of female leaders.
The Commonwealth Women’s Forum concluded yesterday.