Constitutional lawyer Jon Apted has criticized the government’s swift passage of the Local Government (Amendment) Act 2023, which he argues improperly emulates the regulations governing Parliamentary Elections in Fiji. During a panel discussion organized by Dialogue Fiji on the topic of women’s participation in local government elections, Apted emphasized the fundamental differences between local and parliamentary election processes.
Apted pointed out that the Amendment Act mandates candidates in local government elections to be either nominated by a political party or run as independents. He highlighted significant historical disparities in elections between larger municipalities and smaller towns.
“Traditionally, major cities like Suva, Lautoka, and Nadi are hotspots for political party engagements, as they seek funding for infrastructure projects or waste management contracts. Residents often engage in electoral contests in these larger areas to gain access to these resources,” Apted explained.
Conversely, Apted noted that smaller towns tend to attract less interest from political parties, making grassroots connections with local residents more vital. He asserted that the new legislation hinders the ability of individuals to run for local government positions.
“The current Amendment Act is inadequate and creates obstacles for potential candidates. It complicates the ability to strategize electoral participation without clear rules, presenting a significant barrier for all involved,” he concluded.