Inoke Momoedonu, the headman of Viseisei Village, has voiced strong opposition to the potential restoration of the Senate in Fiji. At a recent consultation on electoral law reform, he highlighted concerns that such a move would introduce unnecessary delays in the legislative process, ultimately hindering national development.
Momoedonu referenced the lengthy approval processes that characterized the previous Senate system, particularly emphasizing frustrations related to a seawall project that has yet to commence after nearly ten years of waiting. “When a Bill is raised, it has to be endorsed or approved by the Senate; the process takes quite a while,” he explained. He stressed the urgency of addressing climate change impacts on his community, pointing out that Viseisei is a site of historical significance for their ancestors. “Now, climate change is real…the only choice for Viseisei now is to construct a seawall to save this village,” he asserted.
Moreover, Momoedonu proposed that Parliament should focus on strengthening its various functions rather than reverting to a Senate. He called for the establishment of a monitoring body to ensure effective assistance to the public, expressing discontent at the pace of legislative change in the past, which often led to stagnation. “Right now, we are left with two years… By December next year, we will have another election,” he remarked, adding a sense of urgency to the need for tangible improvements.
These sentiments are echoed in calls from political leaders who argue for re-establishing the Senate as a mechanism to enhance legislative scrutiny and accountability. For instance, during community consultations, some leaders pointed out that a Senate could provide essential oversight over legislation, particularly concerning issues like land and natural resources which are vital for indigenous rights.
The ongoing discussions about Fiji’s electoral reform offer a hopeful picture for the future of its governance. Many recognize a potential pathway for more inclusive representation, encouraging broader participation in the democratic process. The dialogue surrounding these political reforms signals a collective desire for a governance structure that is more responsive to the needs of the populace, promoting enhanced democratic representation and engagement as Fiji progresses towards its upcoming elections.
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