The Speaker of Parliament, Filimone Jitoko, has called for stronger public trust, transparency and inclusion in parliamentary decision-making.

Speaking at the 153rd Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly in Arusha, Tanzania, Jitoko highlighted the need for citizens to feel heard and represented on issues that affect their lives.

He highlighted the importance of ensuring young people, women, persons with disabilities and those in remote communities have opportunities to participate in decision-making.

The speaker of parliament also pointed to Fiji’s community system and the Pacific tradition of Talanoa as ways communities can contribute to legislation and public policy.

He stressed that public trust requires transparency, accountability and integrity in decision-making, describing these as fundamental to democracy.

Jitoko also linked inclusive governance to climate change, noting that affected communities need a meaningful voice in decisions affecting their livelihoods, identity and future.

By: Joeli Ragoneliwa