Fiji’s Political Future: Should Dual Citizens Get a Vote?

The call for allowing Fijians with dual citizenship to contest future elections is gaining attention, with Volau Sainikinadi advocating for inclusion at a recent session of the Electoral Law Reform Commission in Lovoni, Levuka. Sainikinadi argues that many dual citizens, particularly those living overseas, have valuable skills and insights that could contribute significantly to Fiji’s development. He believes the current laws should reflect a more inclusive approach, enabling anyone under the Fijian flag to participate in the electoral process.

Despite this proposal, concerns have been voiced by Commissioner Deidre Brookes, who highlighted apprehensions raised during previous consultations about dual citizens potentially fleeing to another country if faced with difficulties during their term. Brookes indicated the need for further discussion to address these concerns, emphasizing the importance of building a framework that assures all citizens, regardless of their residency, can contribute responsibly to the political landscape of Fiji.

In a connected discussion, other voices within the electoral reform framework have echoed similar sentiments advocating for the engagement of Fijians living abroad. For example, Paul Morrel suggested allowing overseas Fijians to participate in the political party registration process, while citizens like Lois Tanumi have called for changes that would enable the diaspora to play a more active role in political discourse, reflecting a broader push for inclusivity in Fiji’s political system.

The ongoing consultations present a pivotal moment for Fiji, as discussions surrounding dual citizenship echo larger conversations about reforming electoral laws to foster participation and representation across various demographics. As the nation edges closer to the 2026 General Elections, there remains a hopeful outlook that these discussions can lead to a more inclusive democracy, ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their location, has the opportunity to play a part in shaping the governance of their country. The active participation of international Fijians could be instrumental in addressing issues such as brain drain and socio-economic development, ultimately strengthening Fiji’s political framework.