DISCUSSIONS on the proposed electoral amendment Bills highlighted strong public debate regarding campaign financing and polling day logistics during committee consultations in Lautoka.
The Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights is conducting public consultations on key proposals including the Fiji Police Force Bill, three electoral amendment measures, and the Personal Insolvency, Financial Rehabilitation and Entrepreneurial Rescue Bill.
Committee chairman Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure said citizens voiced mixed reactions to provisions governing campaign spending limits, candidate-funded transportation, and polling station boundaries.
A primary concern is whether allowing political parties to supply food and transportation could lead to improper influence over voters.
Representatives from rural communities noted that transport assistance remains vital to ensure strong voter participation, particularly within villages.
“So basically in a nutshell, it’s going good, some reservations here and there, but we welcome all the submissions that have been coming in so far,” he said.
The committee noted widespread support for shortening the polling station exclusion boundary from 300 metres down to 100 metres.
The proposal to repeal the traditional 48-hour campaign blackout period drew varying opinions from attendees.
While several participants agreed the blackout should be removed to permit continuous political engagement, others argued that maintaining a quiet window provides voters necessary rest before casting ballots.
“There are still some reservations that it takes to give the voters ample time to rest.
“However, a lot has supported the idea that it be removed, that there be no blackout period.”
The committee confirmed all public contributions will be carefully catalogued to inform parliamentary deliberation on the final text of the reform Bills.
