The Fijian Elections Office (FEO) has launched the Community Election Advocates Programme, aiming to deploy 450 trained volunteers throughout Fiji to enhance civic engagement and strengthen the bond between electoral institutions and local communities. The launch ceremony took place virtually, with Supervisor of Elections Ana Mataiciwa emphasizing the program’s potential to reshape how citizens interact with democratic processes.
Mataiciwa stated, “This programme recognizes that effective democratic engagement requires both institutional expertise and community connection. Our Community Election Advocates speak not just the languages of iTaukei, Hindi, or English, but the unspoken language of trust and shared experience within their communities.” She expressed hope that this initiative will foster trust in the electoral system, which is vital for the upcoming elections.
Justice Usaia Ratuvili, Chair of the Electoral Commission, also addressed the significance of the program in delivering the Commission’s constitutional mandate. He underscored the importance of ensuring the integrity of electoral systems, with the Community Election Advocates (CEAs) playing a crucial role in informing and reassuring the public about these systems.
The program operates under the motto “Reach One, Empower All,” signifying a shift from earlier approaches to electoral education. By collaborating with volunteers from faith-based and civil society organizations, the initiative seeks to create a robust grassroots network. The initial phase focuses on activating the CEAs, who will undergo extensive two-day training sessions covering essential topics including voter registration and the importance of maintaining political neutrality.
This initiative has garnered support from international partners, including New Zealand’s Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, along with the Voter Outreach for Transparent Elections Fiji Project backed by the United Nations Development Programme. Such international cooperation highlights a commitment to enhancing Fiji’s democratic framework, especially as the country prepares for its general elections scheduled for 2026.
This program aligns with previous efforts by the FEO to increase voter participation, address challenges such as low turnout among young voters, and enhance electoral accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The overarching sentiment surrounding these initiatives is one of optimism, reflecting a collective movement toward a more inclusive and transparent electoral process. By enabling engaged communities and harnessing local trust, the FEO aims not only to boost electoral turnout but also to cultivate a stronger, more resilient democracy in Fiji.
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