Justice Daniel Fatiaki, who heads Fiji’s Electoral Law Reform Commission, expresses strong hope for the 2026 general election to be conducted under a revamped regulatory framework. He is optimistic that meaningful updates to the electoral laws are not only possible but essential, citing the unwavering commitment of stakeholders to advance reforms.
The commission is analyzing three key pieces of legislation that have shaped Fiji’s electoral landscape: the Electoral Act 2014, the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding, and Disclosures) Act 2013, and the Electoral (Registration of Voters) Act 2012. Fatiaki has underscored the urgency of the commission’s work, stressing that any delays should not leave reports languishing unaddressed.
In addition to Fatiaki, the commission consists of notable members including economist Professor Wadan Narsey, lawyer Deidre Brookes, and former National Federation Party general secretary Seni Nabou. They are all committed to handling their responsibilities with integrity and professionalism, ensuring that their discussions are thorough and independent.
One critical concern highlighted by Justice Fatiaki is the significant gender imbalance in political representation. In the recent 2022 General Election, only five women secured seats, which he described as “alarmingly low.” He emphasized the importance of enhancing women’s participation in politics, advocating for reforms that would encourage and facilitate greater representation for women, who comprise half of Fiji’s population.
To gather a variety of perspectives, the commission plans to hold public consultations throughout Fiji, aiming to inform its recommendations with insights from the community. This initiative seeks to foster equity and inclusivity in the electoral process while encouraging more civic engagement. Fatiaki remains hopeful that politicians will support the commission’s recommendations, striving together for a more participatory democracy in the country.
This endeavor resonates with previous conversations on the need for reforms to strengthen electoral integrity, reflecting the public’s desire for changes that align with the hopes and needs of all citizens. The work of the Electoral Reform Commission represents a promising step towards creating a more inclusive electoral system in Fiji, fostering trust and enhancing civic participation in the democratic process.
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