So elections in Fiji have become “dull” and “boring!” Well, that’s the view of National Federation Party (NFP) assistant general secretary Bimal Prasad Chaudhry.
And he has urged the Electoral Law Reform Commission to restore the “festival of democracy”.
Speaking during a public consultation in Navua last week, Mr Chaudhry said restrictive electoral laws had dampened the spirit and excitement of election season in the country.
Does that make sense?
For many Fijians who were part of past elections, it may be correct.
“Right now, the elections are so dull. It’s like attending a funeral and coming home. Simple as that,” Mr Chaudhry insisted.
In his written submission, he called for the removal of laws that prohibit opinion and exit polls, arguing that allowing such engagement would re-energise public interest in politics.
He believes the media, social media, and podcasts should all be free to do opinion polls.
He believes it would create an election carnival-type mood.
True democracy, he insists, requires space for vigorous campaigning, lively debate, and diverse ideas.
“We’ve basically shut out all the doors and windows, put everyone in one compartment and said: ‘this is the law, follow it’. That’s not how democracies grow.”
He was obviously passionate about changing mindsets.
In response, commission chairperson Daniel Fatiaki commended Mr Chaudhry and said he felt the same way.
Mr Fatiaki said he loved the idea of a “festival of democracy”.
For whatever it is worth, we must push for engagement.
We must be encouraged to be part of the process of electing our government.
That’s a duty we should be passionate about.
That means making every effort to register to vote, and to be at the polls during the general elections.
It means making the effort to be motivated.
That will mean being aware of our list of candidates and understanding what they stand for.
It means electing people to hold responsible positions in the governance of our nation.
If democracy feels dull, then the question is what are we doing to breath life into it?
Participation cannot begin and end with casting a vote. As we mentioned above, it starts with registering, understanding our candidates and their policies, and discussing the issues that matter to us, our families, and our future.
The right to vote is a powerful one, however, it will be meaningful if we exercise it with awareness and purpose. It means more than just ticking a box on election day. It means being an active participant in shaping our nation’s direction.
Mr Chaudhry’s call should be seen as a wake-up call to the public, to the media, and to lawmakers to re-evaluate how elections are experienced here. Surely we want a system that excites and inspires!
To that end, people should be informed, inspired, and included. Elections should be a celebration of choice, voice, and freedom.
Let’s encourage debate. Let’s encourage engagement. And let’s make voting a source of pride.
Yes, let’s bring back the colour and the conversation. Let’s care for, and let’s assist in the growth of our nation.
