The Coalition Government of Fiji’s promise to investigate the significant ‘glitch’ that occurred during the 2022 General Election remains unresolved nearly two years later, leaving many citizens feeling uncertain about the integrity of the electoral process. Supervisor of Elections, Ana Mataiciwa, has expressed her frustration regarding the lack of clear directives from Justice Minister Siromi Turaga, especially as preparations for the upcoming 2026 elections continue.

The problematic glitch took place on December 14, 2022. It was a critical moment when the Fijian Elections Office (FEO) app malfunctioned during the vote counting, resulting in the suspension of provisional results. Former Supervisor of Elections, Mohammed Saneem, cited data transmission failures as the cause of inaccurate vote counts that misrepresented the standing of several candidates. This situation raised considerable skepticism, particularly from then-leader of the People’s Alliance party, Sitiveni Rabuka, who voiced concerns about the election outcomes.

Mataiciwa has repeatedly called for a comprehensive report on the incident, highlighting the urgency for transparency and clarity among stakeholders—including political parties, candidates, and voters. “Two years have passed since the elections, and many stakeholders want updates on this matter,” she noted.

Moreover, Mataiciwa has pointed out logistical challenges faced by the FEO, particularly concerning the storage of ballot boxes in preparation for the 2026 elections. These issues underscore the complexities of the electoral process and the need for proactive measures to ensure smooth operations in the future.

In a recent cybercrime forum, Minister Turaga acknowledged the ongoing investigation, asserting that discussions with the Electoral Commission and further evaluations are still in progress. While the protraction of the investigation is disheartening for many, it could also represent an opportunity for the government to enhance the integrity and efficiency of future elections.

This situation emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability within Fiji’s electoral framework. Although the delays are frustrating, the commitment from government officials to engage in thorough discussions inspires hope for significant improvements that will ultimately restore public trust and promote a fairer electoral process in the future. As the investigation advances, it will be crucial to remain optimistic that meaningful resolutions will arise, leading to a more robust democratic framework in Fiji.