A man has been found guilty of breaching campaign restrictions during the 2018 General Election by the Nadi Magistrates Court. Serevi Turaganicolo faced charges brought forth by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) concerning his actions under the Electoral Act.
The court revealed that Turaganicolo, operating under the Facebook account “Serevi Gonewai,” posted a political message in support of a political party on the forum Chat Fiji during a critical 48-hour campaign blackout period that spanned from November 12 to 14, 2018. This violation was examined by then-FICAC Digital Forensic Investigator Frank Tora, who confirmed the authenticity of the account and identified Turaganicolo as its user.
In her ruling, Resident Magistrate Mareta Tikoisuva emphasized the seriousness of the offense, stating that violations like Turaganicolo’s could undermine public confidence in the electoral process, posing risks of influencing voters unfairly just before polling day. The court took into account Turaganicolo’s guilty plea and noted that he was a first-time offender, which contributed to a sentencing approach that aimed to balance justice with judicial efficiency.
Ultimately, Turaganicolo received a sentence of 15 months in prison, suspended for three years, and was fined $500, which he must pay within a 30-day period. He has the option to appeal the sentencing within 28 days.
This case serves as a critical reminder of the importance of adhering to electoral laws designed to maintain the integrity of the democratic process. Upholding these principles is essential for fostering public trust in the electoral framework, ensuring that future elections are conducted fairly and transparently. Through judicial accountability, there is hope for reinforcing the standards of conduct expected from individuals engaged in political activities, which is vital for the stability of Fiji’s democratic governance.
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