Leader of Unity Fiji Savenaca Narube has questioned the Government’s push to proceed with local government elections this year, suggesting they should be deferred to ease pressure on resources ahead of the general elections.
The Fiji Elections Office has indicated the polls will be held on a Saturday in September, though an exact date is yet to be confirmed.
Mr Narube said the delay in setting a firm date reflects broader concerns.
“People will recall that the local government election was one of the many promises that this Government said it would fulfil early in its term. But three and a half years on, we are still not sure of the actual date,” he said.
He warned that key preparations, particularly voter awareness, remain incomplete.
“With over twenty years without a local government election, this education and awareness must be comprehensive and will take time,” he said.
Mr Narube also pointed to challenges around the electoral system, noting the shift to a first-past-the-post ward system would require public understanding.
He raised concerns about financial and logistical strain, especially with elections expected close to the general polls.
“The resources needed to hold the local government elections within months of a general election will be a strain on government’s fragile finance,” he said.
“The looming fuel crisis will greatly complicate the situation.”
Unity Fiji is now proposing that the elections be postponed.
“Resources should concentrate on the national elections, leaving the local government elections to the next government,” Mr Narube said.
