Local elections in Fiji
For the first time since 2005, the Republic of Fiji is preparing for its return to the polls for municipal elections in September 2026. This marks a pivotal milestone in the nation’s commitment to decentr ...
Fiji local government elections 2026: restoring grassroots democracy
13 May 2026
For the first time since 2005, the Republic of Fiji is preparing for its return to the polls for municipal elections in September 2026. This marks a pivotal milestone in the nation’s commitment to decentralisation and the restoration of democratic governance at the local level.
Strengthening Local Democracy
Conducted under the First Past The Post (FPTP) system, 141 councillors will be elected across 13 municipal councils, including major hubs such as Suva, Lautoka, and Nadi. Supported by the newly approved Electoral (Local Government Elections) Regulations 2025, the transition from government-appointed administrators to elected councils is a vital step in devolving decision-making and integrating community voices directly into the policies governing their daily lives.
Reflecting Fiji’s commitment as a member of the Commonwealth family, this strategic move aligns with the Aberdeen Agenda, bringing the nation closer to international standards and the shared values of democratic governance held across the Commonwealth.
Gender Equality and Inclusive Leadership
The 2026 elections present a transformative opportunity to enhance gender equality in Fiji’s political landscape. Across the Commonwealth women have been underrepresented in local leadership roles; in the last Fiji elections held in 2005, female representatives secured only 13% of the available seats. The upcoming polls serve as a platform for encouraging women’s participation in municipal leadership and fostering change towards inclusive local governance.
Towards Localising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Looking ahead, empowering elected local leadership will enable Fiji to deliver on strategic priorities - such as climate resilience, local economic development, and sustainable urbanisation, with greater pragmatism and community ownership. This transition places Fiji on a clear trajectory towards localising the SDGs, ensuring that these global targets are effectively translated into tangible realities.
Beyond the 2026 elections, CLGF remains committed to supporting Fiji’s newly elected councillors in delivering their mandates through technical assistance programmes, policy-oriented research, and peer-to-peer exchanges on effective governance and service delivery across the Commonwealth network.
CLGF Pacific Regional Director, Ms Karibaiti Taoaba, stated: “Local government elections are a cornerstone for sustainable development in the Pacific, and Fiji more specifically. This bottom-up approach will enable municipal leadership to respond effectively to immediate local challenges and strengthen community resilience. CLGF is proud to partner with Fiji as it increases local democratic inclusion and reinforces a climate-resilient, inclusive, and prosperous future for every citizen.”
Photo credit: © Fijian Elections Office
Back to News
