FijiFirst’s new MP Matai Akauola yesterday listed goals he will pursue.

– Take steps to increase women’s representation in Parliament and to empower them to be active in all aspects of society, including governance and business.

– Explore strategies to meet the challenges rising from climate change, involving urgent and effective actions in mitigation, adaptation and financing including placing a higher reliance on renewable energy.

– Foster a free, professional and independent media to promote democracy and an open and transparent society. Media has and continues to have an important role to play in ensuring political accountability. Participants remarked on the rise of social media and its utility as a communication tool, particularly in remote communities.

– Promote effective leadership and creative engagement between Parliament and the community we represent.

– Explore ways to improve the delivery and creation of services in small, isolated communities through better infrastructure and information technology.

– Prioritise primary healthcare, health promotion and disease prevention; work to educate our communities on the importance of healthy lifestyles and to raise awareness about reproductive and sexual health and ensuring cost effectiveness and good management to sustain affordability of healthcare.

– Improve and promote economic conditions to facilitate trade and investment in a manner that ensures sustainable development in the interests of Fiji while still retaining cultural identity and sovereignty.

– Acknowledge that sound governance from our Parliament is essential to expand sustainable businesses and to create jobs, especially for young people.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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