The Fiji Law Reform Commission has announced a comprehensive review of the country’s electoral laws, targeting critical issues such as the single constituency system and the underrepresentation of women in Parliament. Daniel Fatiaki, Chair of the Review Team, emphasized the necessity of structural changes to foster a more equitable electoral system for all Fijians.
This reform process, endorsed by the cabinet earlier this year, places responsibility in the hands of the Fiji Law Reform Commission. The Commission will specifically assess the Electoral Act 2014, the Electoral (Registration of Voters) Act 2012, and the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013. Collaborations with the Ministry of Justice, the Electoral Commission of Fiji, and the Fijian Elections Office are integral to this initiative.
Fatiaki underscored the need for encouraging women’s political participation, remarking, “If women don’t get voted, then you sort of wonder, well, maybe the women aren’t voting for themselves,” signaling a crucial focus area during the review process.
Justice Minister Siromi Turaga highlighted that the terms of the review are ambitious yet pivotal for enhancing democracy in Fiji. The Ministry aims to simplify and strengthen democratic principles within electoral laws, ultimately improving participation, inclusivity, and transparency.
Permanent Secretary Selina Kuruleca expressed optimism for the reforms, affirming the commitment to promote democratic values and ensure a fairer electoral system. The review will include a public consultation phase lasting two weeks, after which the Commission will develop an issue paper outlining the findings.
This reform effort reflects a promising step toward fostering a more participatory democracy and enhancing representation in Fiji. By addressing existing criticisms of the electoral framework, the government is signaling its dedication to significant change, which can empower citizens and revitalize the political landscape, thereby nurturing greater confidence in its democratic processes for the future.
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