The proposed amendments to the Information Act 2018 in Fiji are set to enhance public accessibility to government data, allowing individuals regardless of citizenship or literacy levels to request information from public agencies. This legislative change, highlighted during a recent public consultation led by Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure, Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights, aims to bolster transparency and accountability in the public sector.
Ratu Rakuita emphasized the critical role of these amendments in ensuring that public officials, especially those in executive and parliamentary roles, prioritize the dissemination of information concerning service delivery. He indicated that citizens could submit applications or complaints to the Accountability and Transparency Commission, which would address delays in providing essential information to the public.
Faiyaz Koya, a committee member, noted that while promoting openness, the bill would still protect sensitive information requiring proper authorization for access. He reassured the public that most information from public agencies would be available unless it fell under specific official secrets or strategic government plans.
Furthermore, the ongoing consultations, which are scheduled to continue in locations such as Savusavu, Taveuni, and Levuka, indicate a proactive approach by the government to engage the community in shaping legislation that directly affects them. These consultations contribute to a broader initiative by the Fiji government to modernize governance frameworks, including the proposed Accountability and Transparency Commission Bill and Code of Conduct Bill, reflecting ongoing commitments to ethical governance and citizen empowerment.
This legislative drive represents a hopeful step towards a more transparent government, fostering a participatory democracy where citizens feel empowered to seek accountability and engage meaningfully with their elected officials.
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