Governance issues, particularly concerning homelessness and financial mismanagement, have been highlighted in the Consolidated Review Report of the Suva City Council’s Annual Reports for 2016-2018. The report reveals an urgent need for effective leadership to address the increasing social challenges within the city, especially the rising homeless population.
Key recommendations from the report stress the importance of improving financial oversight and reassessing the regulations governing local councils. Despite these challenges, the Suva City Council is actively working towards solutions. Iliesa Vanawalu, Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Social Affairs, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to making Suva a safe, clean, and peaceful environment, while emphasizing the need for enhanced support and collaboration from various stakeholders to tackle these complex issues successfully.
In reaction to the findings, Minister of Local Government Maciu Nalumisa acknowledged the prevalent problem of financial mismanagement. The government plans to implement corrective actions, including conducting internal audits and establishing a rehabilitation center aimed at assisting homeless individuals and street children. Besides, efforts are being made to enhance public infrastructure within Suva, particularly with intended upgrades to significant parks like Albert Park and Thurston Gardens.
The report’s recommendations received support from Opposition MP Hem Chand, who called for improved governance and accountability among local councils. He suggested standardizing accounting practices across councils and proposed the creation of an Audit, Risk, and Improvement Committee to specifically address audit findings.
Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad pointed out the management issues that have led to problems like unpaid rates and boundary disputes, noting that municipal elections have not been held since 2005 due to these management failures. However, he reassured Parliament that preparations for the upcoming elections are in progress, with a budget of $1.5 million allocated to facilitate this process.
This unified effort signals a commitment to revamping governance in Suva, paving the way for improved community well-being and better management of the city’s urban challenges. Enhanced collaboration, accountability, and proactive initiatives are expected to foster significant transformative changes, positively impacting all residents of Suva.
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