The Electoral Commission of Fiji has been encouraged to consider incorporating overseas-based Fijians in the political party registration process. This proposal was presented by Paul Morrel, the general secretary of the newly proposed Kingdom Future Party, during public consultations by the Fiji Law Reform Commission in Navua.
Morrel raised the issue that while overseas Fijians can vote in national elections, they currently lack the ability to participate in political party formations or endorsements. “When a party is formed, they do not have any avenue to provide submissions or show their support,” he stated, emphasizing the inconsistency in allowing them to vote yet excluding them from the party registration process.
He suggested that a portion of the 5,000 signatures needed to register a political party should accept support from Fijians living abroad. This suggestion was acknowledged by Seni Nabou, co-commissioner of the Electoral Law Reform Commission. She questioned whether the proposal allows for an overseas division or simply includes overseas citizens in the existing registration process based on their last registered address in Fiji.
Morrel responded positively, indicating that formal recognition of the overseas diaspora during the signature collection process would mitigate their concerns. This includes ensuring that their voice is counted in the political landscape, as they are an essential part of the Fijian community contributing to its development, even from abroad.
These discussions are occurring in the context of several recent initiatives aimed at enhancing the electoral process for overseas Fijians. The Fijian Elections Office and the Ministry of Employment recently entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to improve voter registration and civic participation for Fijians abroad. This development highlights a growing recognition of the importance of including expatriate citizens in the democratic process, fostering a connection with their homeland.
As Fiji approaches the 2026 General Elections, the consideration of these suggestions represents a hopeful step towards a more inclusive democracy. By ensuring that all Fijians, regardless of their location, can engage in the political process, Fiji has the potential to strengthen its democratic framework and enhance the legislative diversity that reflects its diverse population.
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