FOR the first time ever in Fiji, government communications has been formally standardised.
This follows the launch of the national Communications Guidebook and the Sautu counter-disinformation framework by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, aimed at strengthening how government information is delivered and protected.
Mr Rabuka described the guidebook as a key tool for improving the consistency and quality of government communications.
“This is the new gold standard for daily operations,” he said. “From drafting press releases to preparing for press conferences or crafting social media campaigns, this guidebook provides every communicator with a practical, step-by-step guide to reach every Fijian.”
He said the second initiative, Sautu, focuses on countering the growing threat of disinformation.
“Sautu speaks of wellbeing, peace, and abundance and that is precisely what we are protecting when we defend our citizens from false and manipulative information. “In a region where hostile actors want to exploit divisions and undermine our democracy, Sautu is the way we will respond. “In an age of information warfare, Sautu is not just the destination we want to get to, but our shield against disinformation.”
He acknowledged the contributions of those involved in developing both documents and stressed their importance ahead of upcoming national challenges.
“These steps could not come soon enough; the year ahead is full of challenges. “With elections on the horizon, the information environment will intensify.”
He warned that misinformation could be used to create uncertainty and weaken confidence in public institutions.
“There are people who will try to exploit uncertainty, sow division, and undermine public confidence in our institutions. We must be ready.”
Mr Rabuka also highlighted the ongoing Functional Review of the Fiji Civil Service as another factor requiring clear and coordinated communication.
“The public will be looking to us for transparency and clarity. We must deliver it. “These challenges are not reasons for anxiety, they are reasons to be prepared. And today is about preparation.”
