Fiji’s Housing and Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa has highlighted the difficulties in conducting local government elections due to the country’s complex socio-political environment, its diverse ethnic composition, and historical factors. During a recent parliamentary session, Nalumisa emphasized that local elections require significant efforts to educate and mobilize voters, ensure adherence to electoral laws, and maintain political stability within a delicate democratic framework.
In response to a query from Opposition MP Jone Usamate, Nalumisa confirmed that municipal elections are expected to take place in the next financial year, specifically in 2025. He stated that despite facing challenges, the government is making progress in its preparations and aims to conduct these elections as scheduled.
“The exact date will be verified following consultations with the Fiji Elections Office and the Electoral Commission,” Nalumisa noted. He mentioned that the ministry, in collaboration with various stakeholders, has reviewed and updated the Local Government Act of 1972 to better align with contemporary policies and frameworks.
Nalumisa acknowledged the collaborative efforts that have led to this significant achievement, which involved the Fijian Elections Office, the Solicitor General’s office, municipal councils, and organizations such as the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) and IDEA International. The ministers began working on plans for local government elections in 2023, which included developing action plans with timelines.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to holding local elections, highlighting the importance of local democracy and empowering communities. However, Nalumisa pointed out ongoing issues related to discrepancies in municipal ward documentation, which have hindered the finalization of ward arrangements. Such disparities can result in unequal representation and resource distribution, impacting the functionality of local governments.
The ministry is currently in consultations with municipal councils to finalize logistical details for the upcoming elections, ensuring the establishment of policies and procedures for the allocation of councillors across municipal wards to uphold a transparent and equitable process. After meeting all technical requirements, the ministry will work alongside the Fijian Elections Office and the Electoral Commission for the subsequent steps.
Regarding the inclusion of villages in the election process, Nalumisa stated that this would require the endorsement of the iTaukei Affairs Board, as these villages comprise landowners from towns and cities and possess the right to participate in council elections. He also noted that the last local government elections in Fiji occurred in 2005, after which municipal councils have been run by appointed special administrators.