SODELPA calls for return of constituencies, vernacular name use, and drug test for candidates

SODELPA is calling for the return of the constituencies in the electoral system as consultation on the review of three electoral laws began today.

While speaking in front of the Fiji Law Reform Commission at Suva Civic Centre, SODELPA General Secretary Viliame Takayawa says they should adopt division-based, open-list proportional representation system to localize representation and strengthen voters' accountability and understanding.

Takayawa further says SODELPA felt the full brunt of the weaponization of the electoral laws to clamp down or criminalize members of their party and the party itself, even to the extent of getting suspended.

He says SODELPA would like the reversal of the use of vernacular where they can revert to the Soqosoqo Duavata Ni Lewenivanua Party.

He says serving prisoners should be disqualified from voting or contesting the elections, and mandate drug testing for all candidates to uphold public trust.

Takayawa says it was renamed because some people did not understand their party's name.

He adds they feel that the current design of the electoral system confuses voters, especially regarding the redistribution of votes for those who get less that 5 percent of the votes.

The General Secretary says there is not much advocacy being done, as it is limited to the Elections Office for raising awareness about how the electoral system works.

Takayawa says they feel that this system needs to be changed.

He also highlighted that political parties must have full rights to monitor all phases of the election, and NGOs involved should also get clearance from both FEO, in consultation with the political parties.