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Illustration of Fiji Awaits Answers on Election Night App Glitch

Election Glitch Investigation Still in Limbo Two Years Later

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The Coalition Government of Fiji has yet to fulfill its promise to investigate the significant ‘glitch’ that occurred during the 2022 General Election, leaving citizens without clarity nearly two years later. Supervisor of Elections Ana Mataiciwa has expressed concern over the lack of clear directives from Justice Minister Siromi Turaga, even as preparations for the upcoming 2026 elections continue.

The glitch transpired on December 14, 2022, during the counting of votes, when the Fijian Elections Office (FEO) app malfunctioned. This resulted in a suspension of provisional results and incorrect vote tallies for some candidates due to identified issues with data transmission. The former Supervisor of Elections, Mohammed Saneem, attributed this problem to failed data transmissions, which created significant distrust around the election outcomes, particularly from now-opposition leader Sitiveni Rabuka, who was then the head of the People’s Alliance party.

Mataiciwa has underscored the urgency of delivering a comprehensive report on the glitch, noting that stakeholders—including political parties, candidates, and voters—are eager for updates. “Two years have passed since the elections, and many stakeholders want updates on this matter,” she highlighted, adding that alongside the glitch, logistical challenges such as the storage of ballot boxes still need to be addressed as the FEO prepares for the next elections.

In a recent discussion regarding the ongoing investigation, Minister Turaga confirmed that conversations with the Electoral Commission concerning the incident are continuing, but indicated that the report remains under review, emphasizing the complexities involved in ensuring electoral integrity.

While the delays surrounding the investigation are undoubtedly frustrating, they also present an opportunity for meaningful reforms within Fiji’s electoral system. Such action could bolster public trust and improve the electoral framework, ensuring that future elections are conducted under reliable and transparent conditions.

In summary, although the investigation into the 2022 election glitch remains unresolved, there is hope that ongoing discussions will lead to significant improvements, thus restoring faith in Fiji’s electoral processes. This situation serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining integrity and transparency within democratic practices.

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