Government offices and their affiliated agencies should be required to provide information requested by the public, according to Attorney-General Graham Leung. During a recent media conference focused on Fiji’s Right to Information Act, Leung emphasized the obligation of institutions that receive taxpayer funding to be transparent and responsive to citizens’ inquiries.
Leung pointed out that various organizations, including commercial and statutory companies such as the Electricity Fiji Limited (EFL), Water Authority, and the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF), are funded by public resources and, therefore, must uphold transparency. He highlighted the importance of accessibility to information, particularly for citizens in remote areas. For instance, individuals from rural communities like Lutu in Naitasiri should be able to inquire about local issues, such as medicine shortages at health facilities, and receive clear answers.
The Attorney-General also discussed the importance of timely information release, noting that an absence of prompt responses can diminish the purpose of the Right to Information Act. He acknowledged the limitations within the public service and stated that the government’s capacity to provide information must be taken into account.
Tobey Mendel, the executive director of the Centre for Law and Democracy, expressed concerns regarding the efficiency of the legislation. He mentioned ongoing efforts to develop innovative proposals aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the Act, which could set a precedent globally for handling information access in small island nations.
The broader goal is to encompass all levels of government and all entities funded or controlled by them under the Act, leading to a more transparent system that empowers citizens.
Overall, this initiative represents a positive step towards enhancing transparency and accountability within the Fijian government, ensuring citizens have the information they need to engage effectively with public services.
Summary: Fiji’s Attorney-General Graham Leung has called for greater transparency from government offices and subsidiaries, emphasizing their obligation to provide information to the public, particularly those receiving taxpayer funding. Proposed changes aim to ensure timely responses to inquiries and encompass all government-funded entities, with potential for innovative practices tailored to small island states, promoting enhanced public engagement and governance.
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