In a recent development, Wainunu district representative Peni Matawalu has emphasized that government officials should focus on serving the public, rather than being defensive when faced with criticism. This statement comes after a controversial Facebook post by Forestry Minister Alitia Bainivalu criticized a report by The Fiji Times regarding delays in meeting with Wainunu landowners in Labasa.
Mr. Matawalu defended The Fiji Times, stating that the minister failed to recognize the legitimate concerns expressed by villagers during a recent visit. He argued that officials should prioritize addressing these issues rather than attempting to correct the newspaper’s account. The situation gained attention when a video by The Fiji Times showed landowners waiting outside the ministry’s Northern Division office at Macuata House in Labasa without being promptly received.
In response to the report, Minister Bainivalu claimed that the landowners were received properly and criticized the newspaper for allegedly misrepresenting the facts. She expressed her disappointment, noting that the report insulted not only the ministry but also the landowners.
However, Mr. Matawalu criticized the ministry’s defensive stance, highlighting a larger issue of government officials not adequately listening to rural communities. Fiji Times editor-in-chief Fred Wesley pointed out that their journalist had documented the sequence of events accurately, noting that the landowners had to wait for around 20 minutes before their presence was acknowledged by any ministry staff.
This incident illustrates ongoing challenges in the communication and interaction between government bodies and local communities in Fiji. It underscores the need for transparent and respectful engagement to address grievances adequately and respond to community needs.
Overall, the situation sheds light on broader issues of accountability and responsiveness within government operations, urging a shift towards more constructive and inclusive dialogue. This could potentially pave the way for more effective governance and community relations, fostering an environment where the voices of landowners and rural communities are genuinely heard and addressed.