The Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) is taking a significant step by providing 10 young individuals the chance to run in the upcoming general election. During the SODELPA Youth annual general meeting, Party Leader and Education Minister Aseri Radrodro announced this initiative while addressing over 300 young participants who assembled to discuss the future of youth in Fiji.
Mr. Radrodro emphasized the importance of education, discipline, and leadership in empowering the youth. He stated that SODELPA’s primary focus is to ensure that young people have access to proper educational and employment pathways. In his speech, he highlighted recent achievements of the Coalition government, such as the elimination of student loans and the provision of scholarships, aimed at ensuring that every student can access high-quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.
He expressed SODELPA’s dedication to involving young people in decision-making and leadership roles, noting that the 10 seats allocated to youth candidates reflect the party’s commitment to a collaborative journey towards 2026. Mr. Radrodro underlined the importance of supporting a party that has a long-standing history of over 20 years promoting equal opportunities in education, business, and employment.
Additionally, he urged the youth to be responsible citizens, steering clear of drugs and health risks like HIV, and encouraged them to assist their peers in completing their education. The meeting also saw the election of new board members, with Ratu Tevita Momoedonu taking on the role of President along with Vice Presidents Angeline Tikoitoga and Joshua Gaunavinaka.
These developments underscore SODELPA’s renewed focus on youth engagement and inclusivity as part of its strategy for a transformed political landscape in Fiji. As the party prepares for the 2026 elections, its commitment to youth empowerment and community engagement presents a hopeful outlook for the future of governance in the country, fostering a spirit of optimism among its members and constituents.