The Fiji Law Reform Commission (FLRC) has officially concluded its review of the nation’s electoral laws, with the final report handed over to the Acting Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga. This initiative was led by retired Justice Daniel Fatiaki, who served as the Chairperson, alongside commissioners Professor Wadan Narsey, Deidre Brookes, and Seini Nabou.
The review process, approved by Cabinet on February 8, 2025, concentrated on vital legislative reforms, including the Electoral Act 2014, the Electoral (Registration of Voters) Act 2012, and the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding & Disclosures) Act 2013. A public consultation phase wrapped up on June 30, ensuring that community voices were integrated into the reform process.
The final report contains draft bills that are in the process of being finalized and represents a collaborative effort among the Electoral Commission, the Fiji Elections Office, the Ministry of Justice, and the FLRC. Currently, the report is under consideration by the Attorney General’s Chambers, and it is anticipated that it will soon be submitted to Cabinet for further deliberation.
This reform effort is seen as a crucial step toward enhancing electoral integrity in Fiji. By addressing key issues like transparency and the underrepresentation of women in politics, this initiative signals a commitment to building a more inclusive and participatory democratic environment. With the findings set to influence new legislative frameworks, there is optimism that this approach will empower all citizens, fostering greater public trust in the electoral process and encouraging robust civic engagement in shaping the nation’s political landscape.
Hope lies in the commitment to substantial reforms, contrasting previous criticisms of minor adjustments. This forward-looking initiative aims to create an electoral system that reflects the collective aspirations of the Fijian populace.
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