The Fiji Elections Office (FEO) has initiated voter registration for Fijians who will be working in Australia under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) and Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) schemes. Supervisor of Elections Ana Mataiciwa confirmed that this crucial step allows these workers to participate in future general elections while living abroad. The move came after a recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Employment and the FEO which aimed to restore voting rights to Fijians working overseas.
Permanent Secretary for Employment, Maritino Nemani, noted that the MoU responds to workers’ demands for inclusion in the electoral process. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that overseas workers are given the opportunity to voice their opinions in upcoming elections, reflecting a commitment to greater inclusivity in Fiji’s democracy.
Registration officially commenced on March 31, with booths set up at Kshatriya Hall in Suva during pre-departure trainings. Voter education sessions are planned, detailing the postal voting process and emphasizing the significance of remaining politically active from abroad. The efforts have been met with a positive reception, as Mataiciwa reported that the registration process is progressing smoothly without issues.
This initiative falls in line with past efforts to enhance the rights and conditions of Fijian workers abroad, as highlighted in similar articles about labor agreements that empower citizens and encourage civic participation among those away from home. It represents a hopeful progression towards including all Fijians in the democratic process, reinforcing their connection to their homeland even when they are living and working overseas.
As the 2026 elections approach, the initiatives from the FEO and the Ministry of Employment paint a promising picture of an engaged and active Fijian diaspora, ready to exercise their rights and contribute to the governance of their country from abroad. This development not only strengthens the democratic fabric of Fiji but shows a commitment to ensuring that every citizen’s voice is heard, regardless of their geographical location.
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