Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has told government communications officers that clear and coordinated messaging is critical to maintaining public trust and protecting democracy.
Speaking at the Fiji Government Communications Conference on Monday, Rabuka said effective communication is central to governance.
“A government cannot succeed if it cannot communicate.”
He said public understanding of government actions builds trust and participation.
“When citizens understand what their government is doing and why, they are more likely to engage, to trust, and to participate in our democracy.”
Rabuka warned that governments globally are facing increasing challenges in maintaining public confidence.
“But we live in a world where information moves faster than ever before, and public trust is being tested.”
“Every day across the world, Governments everywhere are trying to maintain trust, and public confidence. And every day, we are being tested by those who seek to undermine our democracy.”
He stressed that communication must reach all platforms and communities.
“Communication is something which we must do as well; on every platform, in every community.”
Rabuka told participants they play a key role in connecting government with the people.
“You are more than simply a media officer. You are the bridge between the government and the people of Fiji.”
“You carry enormous responsibility. Today, we are here to give you the tools, the community, and the recognition you deserve.”
He said global developments, including tensions in the Middle East, are increasing the importance of strong communication.
“Indeed, there has perhaps never been a more critical time for your expertise, particularly as global events – such as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East – continue to shape political and economic realities that reach even our shores.”
Rabuka described the conference as a milestone for Fiji.
“This is the first time in Fiji’s history that government communicators have come together for a professional conference of this kind.”
“That fact alone shows how seriously this government takes communications.”
He said the theme “Coordinate, Collaborate, Elevate” reflects the government’s goal to strengthen communication across ministries.
“The theme (Coordinate, Collaborate, Elevate) captures exactly what we intend to do and raise the standard of government communications, together, as one.”
The Prime Minister also announced the launch of two major tools to guide government communications.
“The first is the Fiji Government Communications Guidebook.”
“This is the new gold standard for daily operations.”
He said the guidebook will support officials in drafting communications and engaging the public.
“The second is SAUTU — Fiji’s own counter-disinformation framework.”
“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.”
Rabuka said the framework will help counter disinformation threats.
“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.”
Rabuka said the coming months will test government communication efforts, particularly with elections approaching.
“These steps could not come soon enough; the year ahead is full of challenges.”
“With elections on the horizon, the information environment will intensify.”
“There are people who will try to exploit uncertainty, sow division, and undermine public confidence in our institutions. We must be ready.”
He also pointed to ongoing civil service reforms as another key challenge.
“The Functional Review of the Fiji Civil Service also presents a moment of scrutiny and transition that demands clear, coordinated, and consistent government communications.”
“The public will be looking to us for transparency and clarity. We must deliver it.”
Rabuka announced a shift in how government communication officers will operate.
“You will also transition from ‘Media Liaison Officers’ to fully equipped ‘Communications Officer’.”
“This is not just a change in job title, it is a change in ambition.”
“In future, you won’t just liaise with the media, but communicate with all Fijians, wherever they are – on social media or in communities.”
He urged officers to work together and engage directly with the public.
“So please, share your resources. Collaborate across ministries. Communicate with the public where they are, not where you would like them to be. Speak as one government.”
Rabuka also acknowledged support from the United Kingdom in organising the conference.
“Today has also happened because of the genuine and growing partnership between Fiji and the United Kingdom.”
“This relationship is built on mutual respect and shared values, and a commitment to serving our citizens and strengthening our democracies through open, honest communication.”
He thanked the British High Commissioner and the UK Government Communication Service for their support.
“Your expertise, your commitment, and your investment in Fiji’s communicators has made this conference possible.”
Rabuka said the success of the initiative will depend on how communicators apply the tools and lessons going forward.
“This is how we earn and maintain the trust of the Fijian people,” he said.
