Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, center, receives a guard of honour by the Fiji Military Forces at the opening of the 2025 parliamentary session in Suva. 24 February 2025. Photo: Parliament of the Republic of Fiji
The President of Fiji used his opening statement for the 2025 parliamentary term to urge MPs and the Fijian people to "refrain from trolling" online.
Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, who was the Speaker of the House until November last year, said people need to set aside personal interests, partisan politics, and the past.
"Let us engage in respectful dialogue and constructive debate," he said on Monday.
"This also applies to your political supporters particularly in their online activities. Advise them to refrain from inflammatory commentary or trolling with lies for political point-scoring."
He noted that although the benefits of technological advancements was reaching most people, "many of our people are still left behind", adding that "exploiting their plight, particularly on social media, is demeaning and a low-blow."
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People must be cautious and ensure that information shared on social media is accurate, reflects reality, and is intended for the common good, rather than creating further division among our communities, he said.
The President told the MPs that it was their duty to leave aside their differences for the common good.
"As national leaders, the focus must be on our shared destiny and commonality rather than our small differences."
He said a better future, "one that reflects the aspirations of all our citizens", is possible "through making the necessary adjustments and a paradigm shift in our leadership approach."
Ratu Naiqama, who is also a high chief, called on the members of the Great Council of Chiefs "to do the same, in order to remain relevant".
"Most importantly, as a diverse society, we must continue embracing inclusivity rather than assimilation," he said.
"We recognise that multiculturalism does not exist in isolation. It is based on the originality of the various ethnic groups, for therein lies the rich mix of our diversity which we must continue to embrace and nurture for this is our beacon shining brightly in our diverse, beloved nation.
He said the intermingling of Fiji's populalation would lead to innovation and new ways of looking at and doing things.
"These are the catalysts for creativity, for entrepreneurship, and above all, a vibrant society and economic growth."
