Former Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki has been appointed alongside three other distinguished individuals as part-time Commissioners to oversee a comprehensive review of Fiji’s electoral laws. The team includes Professor Warden Narsey, a former politician, Seni Nabou, the former General Secretary of the National Federation Party, and Dr. Deidre Brooks, a New Zealand elections expert.
Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga highlighted the critical importance of the Commissioners’ expertise, asserting that their collaborative efforts will help mold an electoral framework grounded in democratic tenets such as fairness, inclusivity, and transparency. Turaga emphasized, “The integrity of Fiji’s electoral system is fundamental to the strength of our democracy,” reaffirming the essential nature of ensuring that every Fijian’s voice is captured and represented in the electoral sphere.
The review aims to address key legislative elements, including the Electoral Act 2014, the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding, and Disclosures) Act 2013, and the Electoral (Registration of Voters) Act 2012. Turaga noted that the initiative is not merely a legal revision; it is a significant opportunity to upgrade and reinforce Fiji’s electoral structure to align with both national and international standards.
The Commissioners will explore important areas such as enhancing women’s representation, promoting civil society involvement, supporting media independence, and developing effective election management systems. Engaging with stakeholders, including governmental bodies, political parties, and civil society organizations, will be crucial in refining their recommendations and proposed reforms.
Turaga reassured that the outcomes of this review will culminate in a final report, along with draft Bills and regulations, which will be submitted to both the Attorney-General and the Ministry of Justice. He conveyed optimism regarding the reforms, stating that this initiative represents an opportunity for progress, accountability, and a reinvigorated trust in the electoral system.
This dedicated effort to involve various stakeholders signals a promising advancement toward strengthening democracy in Fiji by fostering a more inclusive electoral process. With the potential for significant enhancements on the horizon, this initiative demonstrates a commitment to addressing previous criticisms of the electoral framework and empowering all citizens to engage actively in the democratic process.
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