The Cabinet has officially approved the findings of a review concerning the Local Government Act of 1972, which lays the groundwork for the establishment, management, and administration of municipal councils. This significant legislation details the powers, responsibilities, and functions of local authorities, allowing them to deliver essential services to their communities effectively.
The thorough review examined various elements, including the legislative framework, operational processes of municipal councils, the duties and roles of councillors, and the Ministry of Local Government’s involvement. The primary objective is to modernize the law, equipping councils to tackle contemporary challenges and enhance local governance across Fiji’s towns and cities.
Following the review, a draft Local Government Amendment Bill for 2025 has been crafted. This Bill will soon proceed to a phase of public consultation, inviting communities, stakeholders, and ratepayers to provide their feedback and suggestions before its finalization. This approach underscores a commitment to inclusive governance, ensuring that community voices play a vital role in shaping critical legislation.
The government’s initiative to modernize the Local Government Act seeks to empower councils, enabling them to serve their residents more efficiently. This effort is expected to foster improved service delivery and promote greater engagement within communities, paving the way toward a more responsive and effective local governance framework in Fiji.