Empowering Women: Calls for Election Fee Waivers Spark Change in Fiji’s Politics

A call has been made for the waiver of candidacy fees for women and grassroots candidates intending to participate in Fiji’s upcoming elections. This proposal was put forward by Josaia Tokoni, project manager of the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS), during a consultation session organized by the Fiji Law Reform Commission involving voters from Kadavu.

Mr. Tokoni emphasized the necessity of implementing provisions for financial assistance, particularly aimed at women in politics, to level the playing field. He highlighted that financial barriers often prevent candidates from marginalized groups, including grassroots women, from effectively competing in elections. In his submission, he advocated for the establishment of different categories of campaign funding, including national, party, and personal funds, to ensure fair access and support.

Moreover, Tokoni noted the importance of reviewing and amending election laws to increase transparency, thereby diminishing the advantages that affluent candidates may have. This includes revisiting donation laws for legal entities to facilitate clearer guidelines for candidates receiving financial support.

This appeal for financial reforms echoes prior recommendations from various civil society organizations in Fiji, including the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement and the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, who have previously called for measures such as reserved parliamentary seats for women and financial support tailored for female candidates. The decline in women’s representation in Parliament—from 24% in 2018 to just 18% in recent elections—has underscored the urgent need for action.

The ongoing discussions and advocacy reflect a growing consensus around the critical role of women in political representation. With the right reforms, there exists hope for a future where women’s voices are not only safeguarded but pivotal in the decision-making process, fostering a more inclusive and representative governmental framework in Fiji. There is a collective aspiration for a system that empowers all citizens, showcasing the potential for positive change in the nation’s political landscape.