People are being warned to verify election-related information before sharing it, as those who publish false or misleading claims about Fiji's electoral processes could face fines of up to $50,000, five years' imprisonment, or both.
The Fijian Elections Office says it has noted the circulation of false and misleading information about the National Register of Voters and other electoral processes, stressing that all electoral activities, including the maintenance of the voter register, are carried out strictly in accordance with Fiji's electoral laws.
It says while it welcomes public scrutiny and informed discussion on electoral matters, any claims should be supported by credible evidence and verified information rather than assumptions or misinformation.
The FEO says it will consider applying Section 144A(1) of the Electoral Act 2014 where necessary.
The provision prohibits the publication of information that is known, or reasonably believed, to be false and is likely to influence the outcome of an election or reduce public confidence in the Supervisor of Elections or the Electoral Commission.
The Elections Office says voter registration is conducted in person using prescribed identification requirements, while the National Register of Voters is continuously updated through registration and voter update services, nationwide and overseas registration drives, and regular data-cleaning exercises.
It says these exercises are carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Immigration, Fiji National Provident Fund and the Fiji Corrections Service to verify records relating to deaths, citizenship status and other changes affecting voter eligibility.
The FEO says these verification exercises are conducted more frequently during an election period to ensure the register remains accurate and up to date.
It also says it has assessed a number of claims relating to the National Register of Voters and other electoral processes and found that they are not supported by the facts.
The Elections Office further assures the public that voter registration processes, election systems and the assignment of voters to polling stations are managed in accordance with Electoral Laws and established operational procedures, with continuous verification, oversight and legal safeguards in place to maintain the integrity, security and accuracy of Fiji's electoral services.
The FEO is encouraging members of the public to rely on its official communication channels for electoral information and to seek clarification before publishing or sharing information, saying responsible sharing of accurate information is essential to maintaining public confidence in Fiji's electoral process.
It reiterates its commitment to delivering electoral services that are accurate, credible, transparent and fully compliant with Fiji's Electoral Laws.
