A man has been convicted by the Nadi Magistrates Court for violating campaign restrictions during the 2018 General Election in Fiji. Serevi Turaganicolo faced charges from the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) for breaching the Electoral Act through his actions during a blackout period designed to promote fair campaigning.
Turaganicolo utilized his Facebook account, “Serevi Gonewai,” to post a political message on the platform Chat Fiji within the specified 48-hour period from November 12 to 14, 2018, intended for campaigning. The court was presented with evidence confirming the authenticity of Turaganicolo’s account by FICAC’s Digital Forensic Investigator, Frank Tora, who identified him as the user.
In her ruling, Resident Magistrate Mareta Tikoisuva underscored the detrimental impact of such offenses on public confidence in the electoral process, highlighting the significance of maintaining fairness and integrity in elections. She expressed concern over actions that can potentially sway voters during a critical time.
Considering Turaganicolo’s guilty plea and the fact that he was a first-time offender, the court decided on a sentence of 15 months’ imprisonment, suspended for three years, coupled with a fine of $500, payable within 30 days. Turaganicolo is allowed a 28-day period to appeal the sentence.
This ruling serves as a reminder of the necessity for adherence to electoral laws and the importance of fostering trust in the electoral process. Upholding these standards is crucial for strengthening democratic practices in Fiji, paving the way towards a more transparent and accountable political landscape. The judiciary’s decisive actions may also inspire greater vigilance and integrity in future elections, aiming to ensure fair and equitable governance.