Former Member of Parliament Niko Nawaikula has publicly declared his support for the proposed People’s Star Network Party, saying he will help promote and advise the party despite being barred from contesting the next general election.
In a social media post, Mr Nawaikula said a recent photograph of him alongside party promoter Tau Eliki and supporters was intended to demonstrate his backing for the proposed political party.
Mr Nawaikula said he is unable to contest the next election because of his 2022 conviction and the provisions of Fiji’s electoral laws.
“The Electoral Act does not allow me to contest this election on account of my conviction in 2022. Even the Political Parties Registration & Disclosures Act does not allow me to be the applicant or holder of a proposed party executive or signatory,” he said.
He described the restrictions as “harsh and sad”, noting that he had already served his sentence.
“Rather harsh and sad especially when you consider I have served my punishment but that is the law that must be respected.”
Mr Nawaikula said the law does not prevent him from supporting, promoting or becoming a member of the proposed party, or from assisting it if it is registered.
“The same law does not stop me from being a supporter or promoter or being a party member or being invited to help or do any work for the proposed party now or if it’s approved.”
He said he had reviewed the party’s proposed constitution and supported its provisions, including mechanisms to discipline or remove Members of Parliament who failed to comply with party rules.
Mr Nawaikula also said the proposed party would serve as the political arm of an independent association of vanua and chiefs, which would remain separate and apolitical.
He claimed he had been sidelined by both the People’s Alliance Party (PAP) and SODELPA, but said the proposed People’s Star Network Party had invited him to work closely with it if it gains registration.
“To all who support me and the issues I advocate please support this effort so that what we advocate are not just talk and can materialise into actions,” he said.
The proposed People’s Star Network Party is currently collecting signatures as part of the registration process required under Fiji’s electoral laws.
