After 20 years without municipal elections, Fiji is preparing to go back to the polls, with the Ministry of Local Government launching its Civic Awareness Programme ahead of next year’s Local Government Elections.
Minister for Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa says the launch represents a crucial step for residents within municipal boundaries, many of whom have never participated in a council election.
He says civic education ensures that no Fijian enters the election process uninformed or unprepared, and that before discussing voter registration or the mechanics of voting, we must first build residents’ knowledge, awareness, and confidence so they understand their rights, the role of councillors, and how municipal decisions affect their daily lives.
Nalumisa on elections PN 11th Dec
Nalumisa highlighted the central role municipal councils play in providing essential services, stressing that it is vital for residents to elect individuals who will listen to their concerns and address them.
He also encouraged young voters, many of whom will be casting their vote for the first time, to approach the process seriously.
He says that when citizens choose their leaders, councils become more accountable, more transparent and more responsive, and this is how we build a strong system of people-centred local governance.
The Minister outlined the eligibility criteria for candidates where they must be Fijian citizens, have resided in the municipality for at least 12 months, be over 18 years of age, and must not be Members of Parliament.
He says candidates may contest either as independents or through political parties.
Nalumisa adds that, although Cabinet has indicated elections are expected around September next year, the exact date will be determined by the Electoral Commission.
He explained that the civic awareness campaign will run from today until the end of January next year.
The Minister says the campaign will use a combination of traditional media, digital platforms, and community visits to ensure all residents, including those in villages, are informed.
He says that the awareness campaign has been allocated a budget of $500,000, separate from the Elections Office’s funding for the elections.
He adds that the Coalition Government is proud to fulfil its promise to restore municipal elections, reinforcing local democracy after two decades.
