The Fiji Electoral Law Reform Review Team, led by Chair Daniel Fatiaki, is concluding its public consultation process on the nation’s electoral legislation by the end of June. Following this, the team will prepare a report to be submitted to the Cabinet. Fatiaki emphasized that the government is operating within a set timeline to amend the Constitution and implement a new electoral system before the next election. If the 2013 Constitution remains unchanged, citizens may have to participate in another general election under the current electoral system, which would not include any reforms.
Fatiaki aptly noted the challenges involved, referring to the constitutional amendments as “the big elephant in the room,” indicating that despite the government’s willingness to reform, significant barriers exist. He reassured that the team is dedicated to proposing a system that best reflects the will of the people.
This review comes during a more extensive dialogue around electoral reforms in Fiji, particularly regarding the need for greater representation of women in politics. Previous articles have highlighted ongoing efforts to address these concerns, especially considering the minimal number of women elected to Parliament in recent elections—only five seats were secured by women in the last general election.
The current initiative aligns with public sentiment calling for an overhaul of the electoral framework, aiming to create a more inclusive and participatory democracy. By actively engaging citizens in the consultation process, the review team is laying the groundwork for changes that could fundamentally strengthen democracy in Fiji, reaffirming the importance of every citizen’s voice in shaping the political landscape.
This effort not only reflects a commitment to improving the electoral process but also symbolizes a hopeful advancement towards a more equitable society for all Fijians.
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