We are preparing well for 2014: Bainimarama

Fiji is undergoing constitutional and electoral reforms that will bring democratic institutions and principles to Fiji for the first time, says Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama.

Speaking at the launch of Fiji’s National Day celebration at Yeosu in South Korea Bainimarama highlighted the steps undertaken by government in modernising and strengthening the nation’s electoral foundation through the launch of its first ever Electronic Voter Registration which began in July 3.

“Our consultations for a new constitution calls for the participation of all Fijians as equals, and this is about to commence,” said Bainimarama.

 “As Fijians come together to work towards elections in 2014, my Government looks forward to continuing to work with the Government of the Republic of South Korea to further strengthen our social, economic and political ties,” he said.

Meanwhile Bainimarama also highlighted that this year’s theme of ‘The Living Ocean and Coasts’ is fitting to Fiji and its neighboring Pacific Islands, given that over the past several decades, Fiji has experienced increased pressure on its natural resources and environment.

He said a number of laws have been introduced that apply the principles of sustainable use and development of marine resources, together with protection of endangered species.

“The success of our policies is marked by the protection of the life which has become an attraction and a marketing point for tourism in Fiji,” he said.

He also said their focus in protecting the environment, especially its waters, extends beyond Fiji’s own borders which has made it a leading Pacific Island Nation for the development of sustainable and practical policies.

By Mereani Gonedua