Dialogue Fiji stresses that delaying elections in Fiji would trample upon the democratic rights of every Fijian citizen, Governments do not own their mandates and they borrow them from the people for a limited period of time.
It says that any attempt to extend that mandate through constitutional amendments, transitional provisions, legislative manoeuvres or any other mechanism would amount to a self-coup executed through legal manipulation rather than military force.
While Dialogue Fiji Executive Director, Nilesh Lal welcomes the statement by Minister for Justice and Acting Attorney-General, Siromi Turaga, reaffirming the Coalition Government’s commitment to the constitutional timetable for Fiji’s next General Election and confirming that electoral preparations continue in accordance with the Constitution and the law, he stresses the commitment is critically important and there should be absolutely no ambiguity on this issue.
Lal says the statement provides welcome reassurance to the Fijian people that the Government remains committed to constitutional processes and that the next General Election will be conducted within the constitutionally prescribed timeframe.
He says the next General Election must be held within the constitutionally mandated timeframe.
The Executive Director of Dialogue Fiji says delaying, deferring, suspending or otherwise avoiding elections is not an option under any circumstances.
He says this principle applies regardless of the mechanism used.
Lal says a government cannot avoid elections through legislation, it cannot avoid elections through constitutional amendments, it cannot avoid elections through a newly adopted constitution, nor can it avoid elections by inserting transitional provisions designed to extend its tenure beyond its democratic mandate.
He says the Coalition Government was elected for a fixed constitutional term.
Lal says when that term expires, the only democratic source of authority is a fresh mandate from the people.
Dialogue Fiji warns that the consequences of a self-coup will be immediate, devastating, and entirely against the national interest.
It says there can be total diplomatic isolation as foreign governments, regional neighbours, and key development partners will withdraw recognition of an illegitimate administration that rules past its constitutional mandate.
Lal says there can also be economic ruin and Fiji is already navigating global uncertainties, domestic economic challenges and a rising cost of living.
He says a constitutional crisis will trigger severe economic sanctions, a freeze on international aid, and suspension of concessional bilateral loans.
Lal says the political instability resulting from a paper coup will paralyze investor confidence and decimate our tourism sector, causing massive job losses and financial hardship for ordinary Fijian families.
Dialogue Fiji welcomes the Acting Attorney-General’s clear commitment to the constitutional election timetable and trusts that all political actors will remain equally committed to this fundamental democratic principle.
Siromi Turaga has rejected claims that global fuel prices and international developments may result in the deferment of the General Elections.
He says the Coalition Government remains committed to acting in accordance with the law and the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji.
Turaga stresses that as a Government, they will continue to uphold constitutional processes and ensure that any decisions relating to the electoral process are guided by the legal framework of our country.
The Acting Attorney General says the Government also recognises the ongoing work of the Constitutional Review Commission and will carefully consider its recommendations and outcomes through the appropriate constitutional and legal processes.
Turaga says as Minister responsible for Elections, he has been advised by the Electoral Commission and the Fiji Elections Office that voter registration activities continue and that electoral preparations remain ongoing in accordance with their statutory responsibilities.
He has assured that the relevant institutions continue to carry out their duties as mandated by law, and that the Government will continue to provide the necessary support to ensure that all constitutional and legal processes are respected.
The earliest date for the Writ of Elections to be issued by the President is the 24th of this month and the last possible date is the 24th of December.
The next general elections can be held on any date between 7th August 2026 to 6th February 2027.
