Party Wing Calls for Better Governance

The People’s Alliance New Zealand (PANZ) president Sai Lelea has called on the party to improve its political management.

He said this during the party’s general assembly in Lautoka last Friday.

Mr Lelea said championing transparency and accountability should always be at the heart of their governance.

“Let me emphasise something critical, we must improve our political management,” he said.

“There’s a growing perception that our leadership is always in fire-fighting mode addressing crises rather than leading proactively. This distracts our leader, the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, and our ministers from setting the course and vision we all need. Let us implement systems to reduce these distractions and give our leaders the space to lead.

“Our Government ministers must foster open communication, making key policies and programmes easily understood and accessible to all citizens at home and abroad.

“We must ensure that every Fijian, no matter where they live, has access to clear information about what their Government is doing.”

Get political experts

He said another step toward better governance was the employment of political experts to advice its ministers.

“These advisors, appointed under civil service rules and conditions, will offer much-needed expertise and guidance, ensuring our ministers stay focused on delivering for the people.

“Finally, we must establish a regular schedule of ministerial engagement with our overseas voters. In New Zealand, radio programmes and zoom sessions can keep them informed and allow for direct communication, creating an ongoing bridge between them and Fiji.”

He said together, to strive for a Fiji where every citizen whether at home or abroad should be heard, respected, and connected.

“We must lead with vision, not just react to the challenges we face. There should be the importance of actively considering and involving overseas voters in the party’s thinking and activities.

“Our overseas voters, those in New Zealand, Australia, and beyond, remain deeply connected to our homeland, and we must not overlook their contributions or concerns,” said Mr Lelea.

“We must commit to engaging them continuously, not just during election periods. Our officials should make regular visits to interact with and listen to our overseas communities. Waiting until the eve of an election does a disservice to the rich insights and support, they offer.

“Their voices must be heard year-round, not just when we need their votes.”

Mr Lelea revealed that in the age of technology, distance should no longer be a barrier.

“We can use digital tools to bring them into the fold, engaging them in consultations on critical legislative changes and major reforms.

“This two-way dialogue can strengthen our democracy and ensure we remain in tune with their perspectives.”

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj