A FORMER long-serving civil servant says common sense must prevail in the Government’s decision to defer municipal elections while preparations continue for the next general election.
Jioji Kotobalavu, who has served four of Fiji’s prime ministers, said Government has taken what he described as a “pragmatic and sensible approach” in prioritising the national polls over local government elections, citing financial pressures and constitutional obligations.
“As Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has publicly explained, the Government has taken a practical approach to the holding of the general election and municipal elections,” he said.
“The two main factors are the constraints of time and the imperative need to redirect Government expenditure to areas that can assist ordinary citizens facing the increasing daily cost of living.”
He said unlike municipal elections, the general election could not be postponed because the timeline was governed by the Constitution and electoral laws.
“It is simply impossible to defer the general election because the timing is dictated by our Constitution and associated electoral legislation.
“The Supervisor of Elections, Ana Mataiciwa, has already publicly announced that, in accordance with the law, the general election must be held between August 2026 and the first week of January 2027, as the current Parliament completes its term in December this year.”
Mr Kotobalavu said it was therefore “practical common sense” to defer municipal elections until after the national polls.
He added that Government resources should remain focused on essential services and economic support measures at a time when many families were struggling with rising living costs.
