The Coalition Government of Fiji’s commitment to investigate the significant ‘glitch’ that occurred during the 2022 General Election remains unfulfilled, continuing to raise concerns for citizens nearly two years later. Supervisor of Elections (SoE) Ana Mataiciwa recently pointed out that preparations for the upcoming 2026 elections are underway, yet clear directives from Justice Minister Siromi Turaga regarding addressing this glitch have not materialized.

The glitch, which transpired on December 14, 2022, involved a malfunction of the Fijian Elections Office (FEO) app during the vote-counting process, halting the provisional results and triggering confusion over vote tallies. Former SoE Mohammed Saneem attributed the technical issues to failures in data transmission, leading to inaccurate vote counts for certain candidates. This incident fueled significant distrust in the electoral outcomes, particularly from then-leader of the People’s Alliance party, Sitiveni Rabuka.

Mataiciwa has emphasized the urgent need for a thorough and comprehensive report regarding the glitch. “Two years have passed since the elections, and many stakeholders, including political parties, candidates, and voters, want updates on this matter,” she stated, underscoring the necessity for clarity and accountability. In addition, she raised concerns about logistical challenges, such as the storage of ballot boxes as the FEO prepares for the next elections.

Minister Turaga recently acknowledged the ongoing nature of the investigation during a forum on cybercrime, confirming that discussions with the Electoral Commission are still progressing. He indicated that the report remains under review, highlighting the intricate nature of ensuring electoral integrity and the importance of maintaining public trust in democratic processes.

While the delay in addressing these issues is disconcerting, it also presents an opportunity for comprehensive reforms in Fiji’s electoral framework. The government’s ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability can inspire hope for enhanced integrity and reliability in future elections. As discussions continue, there is optimism that necessary adjustments will be made, ultimately fostering a stronger electoral process in Fiji.

In summary, although the investigation into the 2022 election glitch remains unresolved, the dialogue between various stakeholders may lead to significant improvements that restore public faith in the electoral system. The focus on transparency and thorough evaluation is crucial for strengthening democracy in Fiji.