The Ministry of Local Government in Fiji has initiated consultations on the structure of municipal councils as preparations for the upcoming elections gather momentum. These discussions aim to establish the number of councillors allocated to each town and city and to examine the composition of municipal wards.
Minister for Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, expressed that the consultations are designed to bolstered local governance and ensure equitable representation. According to him, these engagements serve as a valuable platform for vigorous conversations on representation that reflects community needs and aligns with international electoral standards.
During the consultations, held in two sessions, participants included representatives from registered political parties and municipal council officials, including Special Administrators and Acting Chief Executives. The key principles guiding these discussions focus on fair allocation of councillors based on population distribution, maintaining existing ward boundaries while striving for balanced representation, and ensuring that the population-to-councillor ratios adhere to international best practices. The inclusion of i-Taukei villages within municipal boundaries was also highlighted to promote inclusive governance.
Mr. Nalumisa emphasized that the aim is to empower every Fijian by allowing their voices to shape the future of their towns and cities. Information about the consultations will be shared with the public through flyers, pamphlets, and FAQs, encouraging residents to participate in the decision-making process regarding their local councils.
This proactive approach echoes previous efforts toward revitalizing local democracy in Fiji, which has seen its last municipal elections in 2005. The upcoming elections represent a critical opportunity to engage communities, promote civic participation, and create a more responsive local governance framework.
The government’s initiatives in preparing for this electoral process reflect a positive outlook towards strengthening democratic practices and empowering local communities, aiming to cultivate a more engaged electorate and inspiring hope for a brighter future in Fiji’s governance landscape.
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