Justice Ratu Usaia Ratuvili has been officially appointed as the new chair of the Electoral Commission (EC), as confirmed by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who also serves as the chair of the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC). The appointment was finalized after Justice Ratuvili accepted the position and the COC determined his compensation as a sitting judge.
Prime Minister Rabuka stated that the decision had been made in a prior meeting, but it was necessary to confirm Justice Ratuvili’s acceptance and finalize the compensation details through an independent committee before making the announcement.
The position of EC chair had been unoccupied since September 14, 2024, when Barbara Malimali resigned to take on a role as commissioner of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
Justice Ratuvili has a notable educational background, being part of the University of the South Pacific’s inaugural LLB cohort in 1998 and obtaining a Master’s in International Human Rights from Hong Kong University in 2007. He began his career in Fiji’s Judicial Department in 2009 after a decade of legal practice. His judicial roles have included serving as Acting Master of the High Court and later as Puisne Judge of the High Court in Suva.
With his extensive legal experience and background in human rights, Justice Ratuvili’s leadership is expected to bring stability and integrity to the Electoral Commission during a pivotal time for Fijian governance.
This new appointment is a significant step for the Electoral Commission, and many will be looking forward to the positive changes and advancements that Justice Ratuvili will implement in this key role.
Leave a comment