Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua has moved to allay concerns over the timing of Fiji’s next general election, insisting that the polls will be held within the timeframe prescribed by law.
He said Government remained committed to meeting its constitutional obligations, emphasising that the Coalition’s position on the election timetable was clear.
As the minister responsible for national security, he said he wanted to put any uncertainty surrounding the election date to rest, adding the military will play a supporting role in security preparations.
“The elections will occur at the specified time,” he said.
“Let no one run against it or say something against it.”
Mr Tikoduadua was responding to questions about the Republic of Fiji Military Forces’ (RFMF) involvement in security preparations for the December 9 referendum and the upcoming general election.
He said the military would work in support of the Fiji Police Force and the Electoral Commission to help ensure both events were conducted in a safe environment and in a free and fair manner.
“That is our role and that will always remain our role,” he said.
Mr Tikoduadua added the Prime Minister was responsible for determining the election date.
The latest possible date for the issue of the Writ of Elections is December 24, 2026, while the latest possible date for polling is February 6, 2027.
