Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has called upon Independent Member of Parliament Alvick Maharaj to formally address the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC) regarding the challenges he faces in his appeal against the deregistration of the FijiFirst Party. This request comes as a response to Maharaj’s criticisms directed at the COC for its apparent delays in appointing a new chairperson for the Electoral Commission.

Rabuka pointed out that the COC includes two representatives from the opposition, one of whom is the Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu. He encouraged Maharaj to communicate with them regarding his concerns about the appeal process, which is currently under the jurisdiction of the Fijian Elections Office (FEO).

Maharaj has labeled the situation as ‘slack’ on the part of the COC, drawing attention to the vacancy left by Barbara Malimali’s resignation as chair of the Electoral Commission. He claims that the COC has been aware of the appeal process but has yet to appoint a new commissioner.

This ongoing situation highlights the procedural complexities in the Fijian political landscape, particularly concerning the deregistration of political parties. Maharaj previously filed his appeal against the FEO’s decision based on the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act, following a complaint from former party member Mosese Bulitavu, who alleged that FijiFirst violated its own constitutional regulations.

As Maharaj’s appeal process unfolds, the next court hearing is set for August 15, raising anticipation about the possible outcomes and their implications for the future of the FijiFirst Party.

In this context, the Prime Minister’s involvement suggests an acknowledgment of the need for swift action to resolve lingering political disputes, underscoring the importance of transparency and communication in the electoral processes of Fiji. The situation serves as a reminder that democratic procedures, while often slow, are designed to ensure fairness and accountability.

Overall, there is hope that this procedural clarity can lead to a resolution that satisfies all parties involved while maintaining the integrity of the electoral process in Fiji.