Villagers of Viria in Naitasiri packed their makeshift shed as they await the arrival of the Speaker of Parliament, Dr Jiko Luveni for her ‘Meet the Speaker’ on Wednesday.

According to the Vunivalu, Ratu Orisi Basituka Ramumu, it was the first time a Parliament Speaker, had visited and enlightened them about the works of Parliament.

“This is the first Speaker to think about the villages in Naitasiri. We are so grateful that she took time to visitour village and explain about her role and that of Parliament,” Ratu Orisi said.

“Now when we watch television, we better understand the works of Parliament and how Parliamentarians act during Parliament sitting.

“We only hope that she gets re-elected as Speaker so that she can visit our village again in future.”

Fourty-one-year old Joana Railigi said: “I now better understand how things happen in Parliament and I’m so thankful to hear it from none other than the Speaker herself.”

The ‘Parliament Bus’ team later visited Gusuisavu village and presented to the villagers about the roles zand functions, works of Parliament and how they can engage with Parliament.

Village headman Naima Tanau said at first, they thought the visit was a political one.

But after thepresentation, they clearly understand the difference between the roles of Parliament, Government and the Judiciary.

“We encourage other villages in Naitasiri to get hold of this opportunity as it will help us better understandthe role of Parliament and how we can engage with them, especially before the elections in 2018,” Mr Tanau said.

The team visited Nacokaika Village yesterday.

Source: Parliament of Fiji

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