Political sociologist Professor Steven Ratuva has deemed the review of Fiji’s electoral laws to be both timely and necessary, pointing to several shortcomings in the current system that must be addressed. He urged stakeholders and communities to engage in the ongoing discussions to ensure a thorough examination of the Law Reform Commission’s findings.
Earlier this year, the Cabinet authorized the Fiji Law Reform Commission to oversee the comprehensive review and reform process regarding electoral laws, with a clear focus on fostering inclusivity throughout the discussions. Professor Ratuva emphasizes that this information-gathering phase is crucial for shaping laws that reflect the needs and aspirations of all Fijians. He noted, “The electoral laws review is probably timely as well, because the current electoral system has a number of shortcomings that need to be addressed.”
Justice Minister Siromi Turaga has also reaffirmed that extensive consultations will be held to gather valuable insights into the experiences and challenges faced under the existing electoral framework. This extensive engagement is aimed at ensuring that the proposed reforms are comprehensive, widely accepted, and understood by the communities they will affect.
The review process will evaluate key legislations—including the Electoral Act 2014 and the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding, and Disclosures) Act 2013—ultimately aiming to enhance participation and transparency in Fiji’s elections. The process also seeks to address critical issues, such as the underrepresentation of women in politics, which has been a significant concern highlighted in previous discussions, especially given that only five women were elected in the recent 2022 elections.
Turaga underscored the importance of creating a system that reflects both national values and international standards, stating that this review will pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive electoral environment in Fiji. As notable figures involved in this initiative, including former Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki, prepare to engage with communities across the nation, there is a hopeful sense that these reforms will reinforce democratic processes, ultimately restoring public trust and ensuring that every citizen’s voice counts in shaping Fiji’s future.
This reform initiative is seen not just as a legal necessity but as a pivotal moment toward building a more just political landscape, where every Fijian can participate fully and meaningfully in their democracy.
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