Concerns over the use of outdated population data and the legal framework governing electoral boundaries were among the key reasons cited by the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) in supporting the deferment of municipal elections.
According to party general secretary Simione Rasova, SODELPA, together with Coalition partners the National Federation Party (NFP) and The People’s Alliance party (PAP), had jointly written to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka last month requesting that the municipal polls be postponed.
He said the deferment would allow more time for proper preparation and the use of updated demographic information.
“We accept the decision by PM because it gives us the time and space to prepare well and on top of that we know that these people are getting the data from the 2017 census, the next census is in 2027,” Mr Rasova said.
He also clarified that SODELPA had not made any request to alter urban ward boundaries, stressing that such changes could only be made through legislative amendments.
“To change the boundaries, we must change the Act.”
Mr Rasova also urged the Fijian Elections Office to simplify voter registration processes, saying current requirements were discouraging participation.
He also opposed suggestions to hold municipal elections, a referendum and the general election on the same day, saying it would be too costly and difficult to manage.
