The has declined former Supervisor of Elections ‘s request to establish an independent committee to investigate the conduct of four officials from the , saying the matter falls outside its constitutional mandate.
In a statement today, the Commission acknowledged Saneem’s request and noted the recent acquittal of Saneem and former Attorney-General in the High Court on June 26.
However, it said disciplinary matters involving the Supervisor of Elections fall under the jurisdiction of the , where Saneem has already lodged a formal complaint.
The Commission said it would defer to the Constitutional Offices Commission’s process, describing it as the “appropriate and constitutionally empowered body” to deal with the matter.
It also said the appointment, employment conditions and removal of the other Fijian Elections Office officials named by Saneem are the responsibility of the Supervisor of Elections, not the Electoral Commission, placing those matters beyond its authority.
The Commission said it recognised Saneem’s right to lodge his complaint under Section 137 of the Constitution and would await the outcome of that process.
Reaffirming its role, the Electoral Commission said it remains the “ultimate custodian of the elections process” and, under Section 8(1) of the Electoral Act 2014, is responsible for overseeing the work of the Supervisor of Elections and issuing directions where necessary.
It added that preparations for Fiji’s next general election are well underway and that it is working to ensure all arrangements are in place before the country goes to the polls.
