Fiji has inaugurated a Local Government Register of Voters aimed at facilitating municipal elections, with the system set to be operational starting December 24, 2025. This development follows the implementation of the Electoral (Local Government Elections) Regulations 2025, which establishes a structured framework for tracking voter registration within the country’s municipal elections.
The Fijian Elections Office (FEO) will oversee the Local Government Register, cataloging essential voter information including full name, date of birth, residential address, municipality, and ward. The new register may function either alongside the existing National Register of Voters or as a standalone database, based on the discretion of the Supervisor of Elections.
As mandated by the regulations, the supervisor is responsible for initiating voter registration at least once annually. Announcements regarding this process will be disseminated via the FEO website, various media outlets, and posted in municipal areas to encourage unregistered individuals who meet the qualifications to apply.
To register, applicants must submit verified personal information, including their voter card number and a declaration affirming the accuracy of their details. The supervisor has the authority to conduct eligibility checks and may reject applications that are incomplete or do not meet compliance standards. Voters who are approved will have their names added to the register and will receive confirmation along with information regarding their assigned polling location.
This initiative is designed to enhance the efficiency of municipal election preparations and to maintain a reliable and current voter registry for effective local governance across Fiji. By ensuring that municipal election processes are well-managed, this new voter registration system holds the potential to empower citizens and foster greater participation in local governance.
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