A man has been convicted for violating campaign rules during the 2018 General Election, according to a recent ruling by the Nadi Magistrates Court. Serevi Turaganicolo was found guilty on one count of Campaign Restrictions During Polling, in violation of the Electoral Act.
The court proceedings revealed that Turaganicolo utilized his Facebook account “Serevi Gonewai” to post a political message supporting a political party on the “Chat Fiji” forum during the designated 48-hour campaign blackout period, which lasted from November 12 to 14, 2018. This posting was deemed a significant breach of electoral laws intended to maintain fairness and prevent manipulation of voters’ opinions immediately before polling day. Resident Magistrate Mareta Tikoisuva stressed the seriousness of such breaches, as they threaten to undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
Turaganicolo’s early guilty plea and his status as a first-time offender were considered mitigating factors during sentencing. He has been sentenced to 15 months in prison, which has been suspended for three years, and additionally, he must pay a fine of $500 within the next 30 days. Turaganicolo has the option to appeal the court’s decision within 28 days.
This ruling serves as an important reminder of the need for strict adherence to electoral regulations that are crucial for upholding democratic integrity. As Fiji strives to maintain a transparent electoral environment, it is vital for all individuals involved in political processes to understand their responsibilities and the potential consequences of their actions. The hope remains that this case reinforces the principles of accountability and fairness essential for fostering public trust in the nation’s electoral framework.