Electoral Commission and FEO to intensify preparation as tomorrow marks one year until first day for possible Writ for the 2022 general election

The Electoral Commission Chairperson, Suresh Chandra says with tomorrow marking one year until the first day for possible Writ for the 2022 general election, preparations for the next general election will intensify in the coming months both in terms of those that intend to contest the election as well as the Commission and the Fijian Elections Office.

Chandra says the Electoral Commission will, in due course, announce its decisions on the total number of seats that will be contested in the next election.

The Commission has also decided to conduct a public draw to determine the first number on the ballot paper.

Towards September this year, the Commission will publish the List of Polling Venues for the next General Election so that all stakeholders are able to plan their operations.

Chandra says there are 3 Electoral Bills in Parliament and as far as he is aware, the bills have been significantly scrutinized by the parliamentary committee through nationwide public consultations.

He says once the Parliament passes these amendments as it deems fit, the legal framework for the next election will become clearer for all stakeholders.

Chandra says they will continue their engagement with political parties and soon the FEO will also be starting operational level engagements with the parties so that all critical stakeholders are well informed and prepared for the next general election.

He says at this point, while this announcement is critical to elections, the Commission also wishes to encourage members of the public to take heed of the advice issued by the Ministry of Health.