Acting Attorney General Siromi Turaga has firmly dismissed rumors regarding the potential postponement of the upcoming general election in Fiji, emphasizing that elections are a constitutional obligation that must be adhered to. Turaga pointed out that Section 58 of the Constitution mandates a maximum parliamentary lifespan of four years, underscoring the critical need to conduct elections as scheduled.
“There will be elections. We are a government that lives by the rule of law. We cannot and will not deviate from it,” Turaga declared decisively. He announced that the earliest date for issuing the writ of election is June 24, with polling expected to occur on August 7. The latest date for issuing the writ is set for December 24, while the final permissible election date is February 6.
Preparing for the election process is already in motion, with the Fiji Law Reform Commission having completed its assessment of electoral laws. This report is currently under review by the Solicitor-General’s Office. The timeline for the upcoming elections will also be shaped by the forthcoming announcement of the Constitutional Review Commission by the Prime Minister. Turaga indicated that once this commission is appointed, a detailed and organized timeline for the elections will be established.
“As Attorney General, my legacy is delivering elections—free, fair, and credible elections,” Turaga stated, highlighting adjustments to election regulations in order to improve upon the frameworks utilized during the 2014 and 2018 elections. The intent is to streamline the voting process, making it more accessible, particularly for voters in rural and non-urban areas.
Turaga has warned the public against falling for misinformation regarding potential delays in the electoral process, stressing the government’s commitment to uphold the rule of law and maintain the integrity of the electoral system. This commitment is a positive step toward enhancing democracy in Fiji, as the administration continues to pave the way for a transparent electoral process.