Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is poised to connect with the public during upcoming “Meet the Public and the Press” sessions scheduled this week in Tavua and Ba. These national civic dialogue events are facilitated by the Fijian Media Association and supported by the U.S. Embassy, aiming to enhance direct communication between citizens and government leaders, which is vital for promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
The Tavua session is set for Wednesday at the Golden Event Centre, while the Ba event will follow on Thursday at Kshatriya Hall. Both sessions will commence at 6 PM and will offer a platform for community members to ask questions and articulate their concerns directly to the Prime Minister and other officials.
Key topics anticipated for discussion include critical areas like water and drainage systems, healthcare services, infrastructure development, agriculture, employment opportunities, and initiatives focused on youth. This initiative mirrors a wider trend observed in recent town hall forums across the nation, where officials, including Prime Minister Rabuka and Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad, have engaged communities on vital issues.
These town hall meetings mark a positive shift towards encouraging greater citizen participation in national dialogue and underscore the importance of open communication between the government and its constituents. This initiative is viewed as a progressive step towards reinforcing democratic values and rebuilding trust in public institutions, particularly in an era where misinformation and civic engagement present significant challenges.
As the Fijian Media Association persists in organizing similar forums nationwide, there is a growing optimism that these gatherings will empower citizens, nurture a culture of constructive dialogue, and reinforce the pillars of democracy in Fiji.