The Fijian Elections Office and the Fiji Corrections Service have strengthened their institutional partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to facilitate cooperation and coordination in the administration of electoral processes.
The MoU was signed at the Corrections Headquarters by the Supervisor of Elections, Ana Mataiciwa, and the Acting Commissioner of Corrections, Auta Moceisuva.
The agreement provides a framework for both institutions to work collaboratively in maintaining the accuracy of the National Register of Voters and facilitating pre-poll voting arrangements within correctional facilities, in accordance with Fiji's electoral laws.
The FEO says through this partnership, the Corrections Service will provide them with updated information on individuals serving prison sentences of 12 months or more, as well as those who have completed their sentences.
It says this will assist the FEO in ensuring that the National Register of Voters is accurately maintained, including the removal and reinstatement of voters as required by law.
The Office says the MoU also strengthens coordination in the identification of eligible staff and inmates, and the preparation of voter lists for pre-poll voting at correctional facilities approved by the Electoral Commission.
Supervisor of Elections, Ana Mataiciwa, acknowledged the importance of the partnership in supporting the integrity and inclusiveness of Fiji's electoral processes.
She says this MoU reflects the importance of cooperation between their institutions in fulfilling their respective responsibilities.
The Supervisor says by working together, they can ensure that the National Register of Voters remains accurate and that eligible voters within correctional facilities are provided the opportunity to participate in the electoral process in accordance with the law.
Mataiciwa adds that both institutions recognise the importance of timely information sharing, effective coordination, and the secure handling of information exchanged under the MoU.
She adds that with preparations underway for upcoming electoral events, the FEO and the Fiji Corrections Service reaffirm their shared commitment to fulfilling their respective responsibilities and supporting the effective administration of electoral processes in Fiji.
