Suva, Fiji – The reform of Fiji’s Electoral Legislative framework was offcially launched on Thursday, 20 March 2025. The launch event, held in Suva, was marked by the signing of terms of engagement by the newly appointed Electoral Law Reform Commissioners, setting in motion a comprehensive review of key election-related laws.

In his opening remarks, Chair of the Electoral Commission,
Justice Usaia Ratuvili, emphasized the significance of this process in ensuring that Fiji’s electoral laws remain relevant, inclusive, and aligned with democratic principles. He outlined that Cabinet has endorsed the review of three key legislations:
• The Electoral Act 2014
• The Electoral (Registration of Voters) Act 2012
• The Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding & Disclosures) Act 2013

The review process, initiated by the Minister for Justice Honorable Siromi Turaga and the Attorney General Hon Graham Leung, will be guided by five thematic areas outlined in the Terms of Reference, including a focus on international best practices, gender equality, and accessibility for persons with disabilities. Justice Ratuvili underscored that while the review will focus on legislative reforms, it may also inform future constitutional amendments that are related to the Fijian elections.

The newly appointed Law Reform Commissioners leading the review process include:
• Commissioner Daniel V. Fatiaki – Former Chief Justice of Fiji and a respected jurist in the Pacific.
• Commissioner Prof Wadan Narsey – Economist, social commentator, and author.
• Commissioner Deidre Brookes – Legal practitioner with expertise in elections and legislative reform.
• Commissioner Seini Nabou – communication specialist with direct experience in electoral frameworks.

Supporting the Commissioners in translating research and consultations into legislative proposals will be legal drafter Mr. David Solvalu.

As part of the process, the Commissioners will undertake extensive consultations with political parties, civil society organizations, electoral experts, government agencies, and the general public. Their findings will culminate in a Discussion Paper, followed by a draft Bill(s) and accompanying Regulations, which will be presented to Cabinet before introduction to Parliament.

Justice Ratuvili acknowledged the compressed timeline for the review but assured everyone that the Electoral Commission would provide full support to the Commissioners. He reiterated the importance of thorough engagement with stakeholders to ensure that the final legislative framework reflects the collective aspirations of the Fijian people.
“This marks the beginning of an important journey to reform our election laws, ensuring that our democracy continues to evolve in a way that is fair, transparent, and truly representative of all Fijians,” Justice Ratuvili said.

The launch signals the Coalition Government’s commitment to democratic reforms, with a strong focus on inclusivity and good governance. Fijians are encouraged to actively participate in upcoming consultations and contribute to shaping the future of the nation’s electoral system.