Government offices and their affiliated entities should be required to respond to information requests from the public, according to Attorney-General Graham Leung. During a media conference focused on Fiji’s Right to Information Act, Leung emphasized that all institutions funded by taxpayers have an obligation to provide information that citizens seek.

Leung highlighted the importance of transparency in organizations funded by public money, including those like Electricity Fiji Limited, the Water Authority, and the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji. He stressed that citizens, even those in remote areas like Lutu, Naitasiri, deserve timely access to information, such as the reasons behind shortages of essential services like medicine at local healthcare facilities.

The Attorney-General also pointed out the significance of timely information dissemination, noting that delayed responses could undermine the purpose of the Act. He acknowledged the limitations within the public service but reiterated the necessity for performance improvements.

Tobey Mendel, executive director of the Centre for Law and Democracy, echoed these sentiments, raising concerns about the efficiency of the legislation. He mentioned that, considering Fiji’s relatively small population, innovative proposals designed for small island developing nations could be introduced. These innovations have the potential to make Fiji’s approach to information access pioneering on a global scale.

In summary, the movement towards greater transparency signifies a positive step for governance in Fiji, fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry. As legislation evolves, it could enhance accountability and trust between the government and the public, laying the groundwork for a more transparent future.