Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is set to engage with citizens during the upcoming “Meet the Public and the Press” sessions scheduled in Tavua and Ba this week. These national civic dialogue events are organized by the Fijian Media Association, with support from the U.S. Embassy. They aim to foster direct communication between the public and government leaders, a crucial aspect of promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
The session in Tavua will take place on Wednesday at the Golden Event Centre, followed by another event in Ba on Thursday at Kshatriya Hall. Both sessions are set to begin at 6 PM, offering an open format where members of the public can pose questions and discuss pressing concerns with the Prime Minister and other officials.
Key topics for discussion during these sessions will include critical issues such as water and drainage systems, healthcare services, infrastructure development, agriculture, employment opportunities, and youth-related initiatives. This initiative reflects a broader trend observed in recent town hall forums across the nation where officials, including Rabuka and Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad, have engaged with communities on similar vital issues.
These town hall meetings exemplify a positive movement towards greater citizen involvement in national dialogues, highlighting the importance of open communication between the government and its constituents. The initiative is seen as a constructive step towards reinforcing democratic principles and rebuilding trust in public institutions, especially amidst challenges related to misinformation and civic engagement.
As the Fijian Media Association continues to organize similar forums across the country, there is a growing hope that these opportunities will empower citizens, foster a culture of dialogue, and strengthen the foundations of democracy in Fiji.