This week, while Cyclone TC Rae impacted the Fiji Group, I was in Levuka, Ovalau, on a special assignment to revisit a story about development issues in the area. Six years ago, my team at The Sunday Times explored the challenges faced by property owners and residents in the Old Capital, and this recent trip served as a vital follow-up.
During my visit, I encountered an overwhelming list of complaints from residents regarding slow development, poor road conditions, and a lack of morgue services. Many locals voiced frustrations about the absence of municipal councils, believing that the establishment of such bodies is essential for accountability and effective governance, akin to how it was two decades ago.
The current government has come under scrutiny for not holding municipal elections, a point they frequently criticized during the Fijifirst Government’s tenure, advocating for the restoration of local democratic processes. Municipal elections are crucial for ensuring that leaders serve the community and are held accountable to their constituents. Such elections play a key role in decentralizing power, promoting transparency, and enhancing civic engagement.
Local government elections have been a topic of extensive discussion, particularly regarding the need for the government to uphold the Local Government Act and ensure that municipal elections take place. National Federation Party member Lenora Qereqeretabua previously proposed that these elections would restore accountability at the local level; however, her motion was not passed.
Currently, there is a significant anticipation for the return of municipal elections. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced in 2023 that the Cabinet approved a process to facilitate the elections of municipal councils. Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad later assured that Fijians would be able to vote in these elections by August 2024.
However, with only a year left until the general election, the state of the municipal elections remains uncertain. Issues stand, such as discrepancies in ward documentation that could hinder fair representation if not addressed. As Minister Maciu Nalumisa pointed out, these municipal elections are essential not only for local governance but also for the empowerment of communities and ensuring that their voices are heard in decision-making processes.
As we look forward to these municipal elections, one can only hope that the government stays true to its promises, paving the way for a more engaged and represented populace. Citizens in Levuka and beyond have long awaited the opportunity to participate in elections that directly influence their lives. The emphasis remains on balancing local needs against the realities of governance, striving for a system that not only allows but encourages citizen participation in local democracy.
Despite the challenges ahead, there is genuine optimism that with concerted effort, these elections will broaden democratic participation across Fiji, fostering a stronger, more inclusive governance framework. The hope is that this journey leads to rejuvenated local governance that genuinely reflects the interests and needs of the community.
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