Fiji is taking significant steps toward enhancing its electoral process, with Acting Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga highlighting the potential reintroduction of ethnicity data in electoral reporting. This move is intended to improve voter turnout and inform national policy planning. During a session in Parliament addressing the Consolidated Review Report on the Electoral Commission’s annual reports from 2020 to 2022, Turaga criticized the past decision to remove ethnicity data, arguing that it has impeded the ability to identify and address trends in voter participation.
In his statement, Turaga emphasized that in a culturally diverse nation like Fiji, eliminating ethnicity information from the electoral system restricts critical insights necessary for shaping effective policies. He asserted the government’s commitment to rectify this gap, adding that the Electoral Commission has agreed to include ethnicity data in future reports to enhance voter engagement strategies.
Moreover, Turaga announced impending changes to Fiji’s electoral laws, indicating that drafting work on proposed amendments is already in progress. The planned reforms come in response to public consultations and are expected to follow a thorough review process before being finalized. Turaga acknowledged public frustration regarding the reform pace but reassured that the ministry is committed to carefully managing the electoral reforms. His goal is to make the voting process easier, more enjoyable, and more inclusive, ultimately fostering higher participation rates among the electorate.
Additionally, addressing issues faced by Fijians living abroad, Turaga vowed to ensure that voting access is improved, noting that some overseas voters received their ballots only a day before the last election—an occurrence he aims to prevent in the future. He expressed satisfaction with the completion of voter awareness programs that have engaged over a thousand Fijians abroad, showcasing a commitment to inclusivity and transparency within the electoral framework.
This proactive approach aligns with previous efforts aimed at reforming electoral laws to reflect the needs of all citizens, including the underrepresentation of women in politics, as highlighted by the Electoral Law Reform Commission. The government’s dedication to consulting with citizens, as well as addressing practical barriers to participation, signifies a hopeful trajectory for a more inclusive and transparent democratic process in Fiji.
Overall, the ongoing reforms represent a meaningful opportunity to engage the electorate, promote civic participation, and strengthen the trust and integrity of Fiji’s electoral system. By prioritizing inclusivity and accessibility, Fiji is poised to nurture a robust democratic environment where every eligible voter’s voice can contribute to shaping the nation’s political landscape.