The Fijian Media Association (FMA) recently conducted town hall meetings in Labasa and Savusavu, highlighting the essential role that information plays in fostering democracy and enhancing government accountability. Information Minister Lynda Tabuya addressed Parliament, emphasizing that informed citizens are more engaged in national decision-making. She stated, “Information is the lifeblood of a healthy democracy,” pointing out that when citizens are well-informed, they can hold government officials accountable and participate more meaningfully in national life.
To encourage further engagement, Tabuya announced that her ministry would embark on a nationwide “listening tour” aimed at gathering direct feedback from the public. Emphasizing a hands-on approach, she expressed her intention to be accessible to citizens, stating, “You will see me in village halls, at the bus stand, behind the tanoa, not to give speeches, but to listen.”
The minister outlined several forthcoming reforms, including the introduction of civic media fellowships, AI-powered SMS alerts, regional archive centers, and live multilingual updates on government services. As part of the commitment to improving citizen engagement, Tabuya pledged to digitize half of the National Archives by 2026 and relaunch the government’s website in January 2026 to ensure accessibility in all three official languages.
Her message resonated with prior discussions held during the FMA’s town halls, where open dialogues about community issues have been encouraged, facilitating interactions between citizens and senior officials, including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. This initiative illustrates a renewed focus on transparency and accountability in governance, depicted as vital for a thriving democracy.
With a proactive roadmap to enhance communication and public participation, Fiji is taking significant steps toward a more informed and involved citizenry, fostering an environment where accountability and meaningful engagement in governance can flourish. This approach stands as a hopeful beacon for democracy in Fiji, aimed at empowering citizens and enhancing their voices in public affairs.
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