A national civic education initiative has been initiated in Fiji to prepare communities for the country’s first Local Government Elections in two decades. The Minister for Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, highlighted that this campaign signifies a pivotal effort to restore democratic representation and empower citizens to take an active role in decisions that affect their towns and cities.
“For two decades our towns and cities have not had elected councils. This campaign aims to equip people with the knowledge, confidence, and voice they need before they head to the voting booth,” Nalumisa stated. The initiative focuses on helping residents understand the impact of local government on their daily lives, addressing key topics such as waste collection, markets, drainage, planning, safety, and community development.
To ensure the campaign reaches its intended audience, the Ministry will partner with the Fijian Elections Office, municipal councils, and various community groups, guaranteeing that essential information is accessible to all residents. Minister Nalumisa also assured the community that integrating certain iTaukei villages into municipal wards would not jeopardize land ownership, traditional governance, or the status of native reserves.
The civic education campaign is set to continue until the end of January next year, leading up to the long-awaited local government elections. This initiative fosters renewed hope for increased civic engagement and participation in local governance, paving the way for a more democratic and involved citizenry in Fiji’s political future. As the nation prepares to exercise its democratic rights, this campaign signifies a significant step toward empowering communities and enhancing the role of local governance.