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, specifically during a blackout period established to promote fair campaigning.
Turaganicolo used his Facebook account, “Serevi Gonewai,” to post a political message on the Chat Fiji platform within the designated 48-hour blackout period from November 12 to 14, 2018. FICAC’s Digital Forensic Investigator, Frank Tora, provided evidence to the court confirming the authenticity of Turaganicolo’s account.
In her ruling, Resident Magistrate Mareta Tikoisuva highlighted the negative implications of such offenses on public confidence in the electoral process. She emphasized the importance of maintaining fairness and integrity in elections, noting that actions taken during this critical time can influence voter decisions.
After considering Turaganicolo’s guilty plea and recognizing him as a first-time offender, the court imposed a sentence of 15 months’ imprisonment, which is suspended for three years, along with a $500 fine to be paid within 30 days. Turaganicolo has the option to appeal the sentence within a 28-day period.
This verdict serves as a strong reminder of the necessity to adhere to electoral laws and the importance of cultivating trust in the electoral process. By upholding these standards, Fiji can strengthen its democratic practices and move towards a more transparent and accountable political environment. The judiciary’s firm stance may also encourage greater vigilance and integrity in future elections, ultimately fostering fair and equitable governance.