Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya has expressed alarm over the significantly low voter turnout among Fijians living overseas, pointing out that only about 600 out of 12,000 registered overseas voters participated in the recent elections. Speaking in Parliament, Koya highlighted this disparity as a critical issue that must be urgently addressed before the upcoming general election.
Koya stated, “Around 12,000 voters were registered from overseas, but only 600 voted — that’s a huge gap.” He emphasized that this low turnout is not attributed to ballot issues or timing complications, but rather an underlying problem with voter engagement among expatriates. He warned that the substantial number of uncast ballots could have a decisive effect on Fiji’s political landscape, noting that elections can often hinge on a thousand votes or fewer. Losing out on roughly 10,000 overseas ballots could play a vital role in determining which party secures power, he noted.
To remedy this situation, Koya called for the Fijian Elections Office to investigate the reasons behind this low participation rate. He stressed the importance of ensuring that more Fijians are not only eligible to vote in the next election but are also motivated to do so.
In light of related concerns, a recent Voter Perception Survey highlighted that many expatriate Fijians feel a strong civic duty to vote, with only 6.9% actually participating in the elections. The low turnout among the diaspora reflects similar challenges faced in different areas of Fiji, where logistical barriers and insufficient communication significantly hinder voter participation.
Past discussions have emphasized the necessity of proper voter education and strategic outreach to enhance participation, particularly for young voters and those living in remote areas. As Fiji prepares for its general elections in 2026, various initiatives by the Fijian Elections Office aim to tackle these challenges by fostering greater civic engagement and addressing barriers faced by voters.
Recent partnerships and memorandums, like those between the FEO and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aim to improve the electoral experience for expatriates, ensuring they receive adequate support and information to facilitate their voting process. These efforts signal a hopeful movement toward a more inclusive democracy in Fiji, reflecting a commitment to amplifying the voices of all citizens, regardless of where they reside.
As the nation gears up for the next electoral cycle, the momentum towards enhancing voter participation, particularly from overseas citizens, showcases an optimistic outlook for Fiji’s democratic engagement and governance.