The search for a new chairperson for the Electoral Commission is now underway following the departure of Barbara Malimali, who recently became the FICAC Commissioner. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who also chairs the Constitutional Offices Commission, has requested COC members to submit their nominations for the vacant position.
Rabuka stated, “I have informed the COC about the vacancy at the Electoral Commission and asked for nominations to be sent in via email.” He mentioned that his initial nominee has withdrawn their name from consideration. “I sent in one nomination, but upon checking with the individual, they graciously requested to be excluded,” he explained. Rabuka is now looking for another suitable candidate to propose.
He indicated that once nominations are collected, the COC members will conduct a vote to select the new chairperson. “When the nominations arrive, we can call for a vote, and based on that, we will choose the new chair of the Electoral Commission,” he said.
The members of the COC include Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka (chair), Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu, Attorney-General Graham Leung, Cema Bolabola, Jon Apted, and Tupou Draunidalo.
In addition, Rabuka noted that he has not yet received any updates regarding the appointment of a new Commissioner of Police. “I haven’t been informed about the COMPOL position,” he remarked, adding that details regarding the advertisement, shortlisting, and interviews have not been relayed to him.