A man has been found guilty of violating campaign regulations during the 2018 General Election, as determined by the Nadi Magistrates Court. Serevi Turaganicolo was convicted on one count of breaching campaign restrictions during polling, which is a violation of the Electoral Act.
The court proceedings disclosed that Turaganicolo leveraged his Facebook account, “Serevi Gonewai,” to post a supportive political message on the forum “Chat Fiji” during a 48-hour campaign blackout period from November 12 to 14, 2018. This act was identified as a severe infraction of electoral laws designed to ensure fairness and protect voters’ opinions leading up to Election Day. Resident Magistrate Mareta Tikoisuva emphasized the gravity of such violations, highlighting their potential to erode public confidence in the electoral system.
In light of his early guilty plea and being a first-time offender, these factors were taken into account during sentencing. Consequently, Turaganicolo received a 15-month prison sentence, which has been suspended for three years. He is also required to pay a $500 fine within 30 days and has the right to appeal the ruling within 28 days.
This decision underscores the critical importance of adhering to electoral regulations, which are fundamental to preserving democratic integrity. As Fiji continues its commitment to fostering a transparent electoral process, it is imperative for those participating in political activities to recognize their responsibilities and the serious implications of their actions. Ultimately, this case may serve to reinforce accountability and fairness, essential for building public trust in the country’s electoral framework.