President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has emphasized the necessity for clean, credible, and lawful general elections in Fiji, calling upon political leaders, candidates, and their supporters to maintain integrity and honor the rule of law before, during, and after the election period. In his address at the commencement of a new session of Parliament, he remarked that the strength of Fiji’s democracy is rooted not only in constitutional checks and balances but also in the actions of those involved in the political process.
He stated, “The strength of our democracy lies not only in the balance of our institutions, but in the conduct of leaders and citizens alike — not only during elections, but especially in the lead-up to and after elections.” The President underscored the importance of protecting democratic stability well beyond polling day, cautioning that reckless behavior and inflammatory rhetoric can erode public confidence in the electoral process.
To secure the nation’s democracy, President Lalabalavu urged leaders and political supporters to engage in dialogue, show compromise, and uphold the rule of law. He called upon all individuals aspiring for public office to behave responsibly and asked political party supporters to practice restraint in their public communication.
In his appeal, he instructed those involved in public discourse to uphold the highest standards of integrity and respect for Fiji’s multicultural society, stressing that clean elections are fundamental to sustaining trust in democratic institutions. He noted that political competition should serve to strengthen the nation rather than create divisions.
President Lalabalavu reminded members of Parliament that democracy is an ongoing quest that transcends electoral victories and defeats. He urged leaders to set a positive example by fostering peaceful, inclusive, and issue-focused campaigning. The way in which elections are conducted will play a crucial role in shaping Fiji’s political maturity and enhancing social cohesion.
Concluding his address, the President insisted that history would evaluate not just the outcomes of elections, but also whether they were carried out in a fair, legal manner that respects the rights of all citizens. His calls highlight a commitment to a more accountable and democratic political environment in Fiji as the nation prepares for its upcoming elections.