Fiji’s Electoral Reforms Face Public Apathy: Will Social Media Aid Engagement?

Consultations held by the Fiji Law Reform Commission aimed at revising the country’s electoral laws have seen disappointing attendance rates. Efforts to boost public interest through awareness campaigns and convenient locations have not yielded the desired engagement, with sessions in Korovou, Tailevu, witnessing no attendees during the initial hour. Similar lackluster responses were observed in previous consultations, notably in Labasa, where a session was canceled due to minimal attendance.

Commission chairperson Daniel Fatiaki expressed his frustration and concern about this trend, noting that many people are more willing to voice their opinions on social media rather than engage in public forums. He remarked, “I’ve been told that there’s more excitement on social media about it than in my public hearings,” emphasizing a shift in how citizens prefer to communicate their views.

Fatiaki underscored the significance of these consultations, which are essential for gathering community feedback on important legislative reforms such as the Electoral Act and related statutes. He urged citizens to participate actively, stating, “We’re not magicians, we’re not going to do it without your help, so, please, come and share with us.”

The commission is also considering adapting its approach to social media to better engage those who prefer digital communication. Noting the importance of thoughtful dialogue, Fatiaki indicated that the commission’s primary objective is to collect comprehensive feedback over the immediate gratification often associated with online platforms.

Despite these early challenges, the commission is committed to conducting further consultations across various regions in Fiji, aiming to reinforce democratic values and ensure that all voices are heard. The hope is that by fostering greater public involvement, the commission can create a more inclusive electoral framework that reflects the diverse opinions and aspirations of the Fijian people.

This ongoing engagement process offers a pathway to strengthen Fiji’s democracy by transforming citizen participation into tangible legislative changes, signaling a hopeful trajectory toward a more engaged and responsive political landscape.