New booklet celebrates 60 years of women in Fiji's Parliament

A new publication celebrating 60 years of women's representation in Fiji's Parliament and Senate was launched on Monday in Suva.

The booklet honours the trailblazers who helped shape the nation's democracy while celebrating women who continue to serve and inspire the next generation.

The Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Fiji Group Booklet: Celebrating Women in Parliament and Senate 1966–2026 documents the achievements and contributions of women who have served in Fiji's Legislature over the past six decades.

Pioneers

Among the pioneers recognised are Adi Losalini Dovi, who served in the Legislative Council from 1966 to 1970 and the House of Representatives from 1970 to 1977; Loloma Irene Livingston, who served in the Legislative Council from 1966 to 1972; Irene Jai Narayan, who served in the Legislative Council from 1966 to 1970, the House of Representatives from 1972 to 1982 and from 1984 to 1985, and the Senate from 1997 to 1999; and Anaseini Qionibaravi, who served in the Senate from 1970 to 1976.

CWP Fiji Group chairperson Lenora Qereqeretabua said the publication recognised the determination of women who broke barriers in public service.

"Each woman featured in this publication has contributed in her own unique way towards shaping legislation, influencing national policy, representing communities and strengthening democratic governance in Fiji," Ms Qereqeretabua said.

"Their journeys have never been easy, but their commitment and perseverance have helped pave the way for future generations of women leaders."

She said documenting the stories of former women parliamentarians was vital to preserving their legacy and inspiring young women and girls to pursue leadership.

Ms Qereqeretabua said one of the CWP's core objectives was to increase women's representation in Parliament and encourage more women to enter political leadership.

"But achieving that goal begins by recognising those who came before us. You cannot inspire the future if you fail to honour the past," she said.

Speaker of Parliament Filimone Jitoko said the publication would preserve an important part of Fiji's parliamentary history.

"This booklet preserves a legacy that might otherwise be lost in time," Mr Jitoko said.

Empowerment

"It captures the stories, experiences and achievements of women whose contributions deserve to be remembered, celebrated and passed on to future generations."

Mr Jitoko said women's participation in political leadership was about more than increasing numbers.

"It is about ensuring that the diverse experiences, perspectives and talents of all our people are reflected in the decisions that shape our nation's future. Strong democracies are built where every voice has the opportunity to be heard."

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran said while initiatives such as the practice parliament for women and youth had resumed, more work was needed to empower women to enter politics.

"We have been working really hard to try and encourage more women to join Parliament. Many things are being done, there is training and mentorship," she said.

"We are wondering what more do we do so that young women feel empowered and it is empowering when you see somebody and you are able to relate to that."

"There are only five of us, so we thought there are women parliamentarians who have gone before us, but we realised there were no publications about them. The research team in Parliament had to put it all together."

The booklet is the result of months of research, fact-checking, writing and editing, with many former women parliamentarians contributing their personal stories.