Digitaki Calls for Public Consultation on Fiji-Australia Treaties

Businesswoman Laisa Digitaki and her daughter Natasha Digitaki Weleilakeba have called for Fijians to be properly consulted before decisions are made on two proposed agreements involving Fiji and Australia.

The pair made their submissions to the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence regarding the Fiji-Australia Vuvale Union and the Ocean of Peace Alliance, also referred to as the Veitacini Treaty.

During their submission, they urged the Committee to ensure the voices of ordinary Fijians are heard and considered before any final decision is made on the agreements.

They stressed that their position should not be interpreted as opposition to Australia or Fiji’s relationship with Australia.

Instead, they said their concern was about ensuring Fijians have an opportunity to understand the proposed agreements and have a say on matters that could affect the country.

Digitaki and Weleilakeba reiterated the importance of public participation and consultation when considering agreements of national significance.

Their submission forms part of the parliamentary committee process examining the two proposed treaties.