Communities across Fiji are advocating for transparency and equity as the nation approaches its upcoming election. In response to these calls, the government has initiated efforts to gather feedback from villages, councils, and youth groups, emphasizing the importance of citizen participation in shaping the country’s future.
Siromi Turaga, the Acting Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to conducting a credible, fair, and transparent electoral process during a recent media interview. He underscored the significance of institutional integrity, community involvement, and public input as fundamental elements of Fiji’s democratic framework.
Turaga emphasized the government’s initiative to expand outreach by consulting directly with citizens in their local villages, moving beyond traditional engagement methods. He stated, “It’s important to hear your voice. Putting it on social media does not count. It’s what the people of Fiji want if they choose a new government; let’s respect that.”
Regarding the electoral timeline, Turaga indicated that preparations are well underway for the next general election, which is anticipated to take place sometime after June, with February 7, 2027, serving as the latest possible election date. He expressed, “By June, we can have our election. And the last day of the election is February 7, 2027. It must be credible; it must be fair.”
Furthermore, Turaga outlined that the ongoing constitutional review will take into account the views of minority groups, youth, and other stakeholders. The aim is to uphold the rule of law while making necessary adjustments to reflect current realities. The process will benefit from legal support provided by the Commonwealth, ensuring that it is both technical and inclusive.
Amidst discussions of potentially contentious constitutional provisions, Turaga reassured that his team is ready to address these issues when they arise, highlighting the government’s dedication to a thorough and thoughtful constitutional review process.
With a clear electoral timeline and a proactive approach to consultations in place, the Fijian government is expressing its resolve to make certain that both the upcoming election and constitutional review resonate with the aspirations of the people. This initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing democratic institutions and fostering trust in the governance of Fiji, reinforcing the hope for a more engaged and participatory political landscape.