Fiji’s Electoral System Set for Major Overhaul: What Changes Are Coming?

The Fiji Law Reform Commission is embarking on a significant review of the country’s electoral laws, aiming to address key issues such as the single constituency system and the underrepresentation of women in Parliament. Daniel Fatiaki, the Review Team Chair, stressed the importance of structural changes to ensure a more equitable electoral system for all Fijians.

The cabinet’s decision earlier this year has placed the reform process in the hands of the Fiji Law Reform Commission, which will be responsible for reviewing the Electoral Act 2014, the Electoral (Registration of Voters) Act 2012, and the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013. This initiative involves collaborations with the Ministry of Justice, the Electoral Commission of Fiji, and the Fijian Elections Office.

Fatiaki pointed out that there is a need to encourage women’s participation, stating, “If women don’t get voted, then you sort of wonder, well, maybe the women aren’t voting for themselves,” highlighting a critical area for focus during the review process.

The Minister for Justice, Siromi Turaga, articulated that the review’s terms are ambitious yet crucial for advancing democracy in Fiji. The Ministry aims to simplify and bolster democratic principles in electoral laws to improve participation, inclusivity, and transparency.

Selina Kuruleca, the Permanent Secretary, expressed optimism about these reforms, asserting commitment to fostering democratic values and ensuring a fairer electoral system. The review process includes a public consultation phase lasting two weeks, after which the Commission will formulate an issue paper.

This reform initiative reflects a hopeful path toward establishing a more participatory democracy and improving representation in Fiji. By addressing the criticisms of the current electoral framework, the government demonstrates a commitment to real change that can empower citizens and invigorate the nation’s political landscape, nurturing confidence in democratic processes for the future.