Fiji’s Leaders Call for Citizen-Centric Governance and Responsible Social Media Use

Fiji’s Assistant Minister for Information, Aliki Bia, has underscored the importance of gauging the nation’s progress through tangible actions that directly benefit its citizens, rather than political rhetoric. In his reaction to a recent speech in Parliament, Bia emphasized that government officials should serve the people, not the other way around. He stated, “We should not impose our rule on the people, but let the people of Fiji impose their voice on the way we want to rule for the country.”

Bia criticized the expectation for citizens to cater to the government and called on Members of Parliament to prioritize the well-being of all Fijians. He articulated the need for politicians to focus on the collective interest of the population, saying, “We should not expect them to deliver when we are not prioritizing the welfare and the collective interest of all Fijians at every level of our society.”

Addressing the role of social media, Bia highlighted its potential to serve as a constructive platform rather than a breeding ground for hostility. He urged Fijians to utilize social media responsibly, stating, “No one benefits from spreading toxic and inflammatory speech. There is no medal for being a source of misinformation and fake news.” He emphasized that leaders should exemplify respectful online behavior.

Bia’s remarks resonate with recent statements made by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, who also stressed the significance of responsible social media use during Parliament’s opening session. The President expressed concern over the rise of online hostility and misinformation, urging both individuals and social media platforms to promote respectful discourse.

The shared advocacy from both Bia and Lalabalavu signals a positive commitment from Fiji’s leadership to cultivate a healthier political environment. Their combined efforts to promote accountability and constructive dialogue suggest a hopeful future where citizens can engage in democracy without facing harassment or misinformation. This collaborative spirit may very well lead to a more inclusive and unified Fiji.