A former CEO of the Nasinu Town Council has raised concerns about the government’s commitment to re-establishing democratic governance at the municipal level. His remarks came during the National Budget Forum, where he highlighted that municipal elections have not been conducted since 2005.
During the forum, the businessman addressed Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad, emphasizing that the issue of municipal elections was a significant topic before the 2022 General Election, yet they have still not been scheduled. In response, Prasad acknowledged the delay and pointed out that the former regime played a role in dismantling local government elections, which has continued to impact the electoral landscape.
Prasad assured that the current government’s priority is to reconstruct the legislative framework, with ongoing reforms to the Local Government Act aimed at enhancing the legal and institutional foundation necessary for municipal elections. While no specific timeline was presented for when the elections might occur, Prasad noted that once the legal groundwork is established, the necessary funding will follow.
Interestingly, similar sentiments have been echoed in previous discussions, with community members expressing the need for local governance to ensure accountability and representation. For instance, many residents in Levuka not only voiced their frustrations regarding development issues but also emphasized the critical role local councils play in effective governance.
This ongoing dialogue about municipal elections underscores the urgent need for the government to fulfill its promises and move towards a more participatory democracy. With anticipated developments on the legal front, there remains hope that the upcoming elections can reinvigorate local governance and empower communities across Fiji. As preparations unfold, it is essential for the government to address underlying issues such as discrepancies in ward documentation, which could impede fair representation.
The potential revival of municipal elections holds the promise of a more engaged populace and a governance system that is reflective of community needs. By placing importance on local democratic processes, Fiji can foster a framework that supports civic engagement and responsive leadership.
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