ELECTORAL REVIEW COMMISSIONERS ORIENTED ON DEMOCRATIC REFORM

Suva, Fiji – The newly appointed Part-Time Commissioners of the Electoral Legislation Review Commission were officially welcomed and oriented on Thursday, 20 March 2025, at the Fiji Law Reform Commission Office. The event marked a pivotal step in Fiji’s electoral reform journey, with government leaders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening democratic processes and fostering greater inclusivity in electoral laws. The orientation was attended by senior government officials, members of the Electoral Commission, and key stakeholders in the electoral and justice sectors.

Hon. Siromi Turaga, Minister for Justice and the Minister responsible for Elections, congratulated the Commissioners and emphasized the importance of their work in refining Fiji’s electoral framework. He highlighted the need for an electoral system that upholds democratic values, promotes transparency, and ensures accessibility for all citizens. Hon. Turaga also underscored the broad scope of the review, which will include review of the key legislations, the Electoral Act 2014 and the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding & Disclosures) Act 2013. He urged the Commissioners to approach the task with diligence and impartiality, stressing that their work would lay the foundation for a more robust and fair electoral system.

Permanent Secretary for Justice, Ms. Selina Kuruleca, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that this review process is an opportunity for national dialogue and pluralism. She urged all stakeholders to participate in discussions that reflect the collective aspirations of the Fijian people. Drawing from historical examples of democracy and justice, she reminded attendees that meaningful reform requires collaboration and engagement across all sectors of society. “This is about addition, about building alliances and ensuring that our electoral laws truly represent the people they serve,” she said.

As part of the review, the Commissioners will conduct extensive consultations with key stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, electoral experts, and the general public. The findings from these consultations will culminate in a Final Report, draft Bill(s), and Regulations, which will undergo validation before being submitted to the Attorney General and the Minister for Justice for consideration. The Coalition Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the reform process is comprehensive, transparent, and reflective of the will of the people.

The event concluded with a call for all Fijians, including the media, to actively engage in the process in a respectful and constructive manner. Hon. Turaga and Ms. Kuruleca reaffirmed that this initiative is a significant milestone in shaping the future of Fiji’s democracy, ensuring that electoral reforms are “by the people and for the people.”