President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has called for clean, credible and lawful general elections, urging political leaders, candidates and supporters to uphold integrity and respect for the rule of law before, during and after polling.
Speaking at the opening of a new session of Parliament, President Lalabalavu said the strength of Fiji’s democracy rests not only on constitutional checks and balances, but on the conduct of those who participate in the political process.
“The strength of our democracy lies not only in the balance of our institutions, but in the conduct of leaders and citizens alike — not only during elections, but especially in the lead-up to and after elections,” he said.
The President stressed that democratic stability must be protected beyond polling day, warning that reckless behaviour and divisive rhetoric can undermine public confidence in elections.
“To secure our democracy, leaders and political supporters must continue to engage in dialogue, compromise and respect for the rule of law,” he said.
President Lalabalavu called on all who seek public office to conduct themselves responsibly, and appealed to political party supporters to exercise restraint in public discourse.
“I therefore call upon all who seek public office, and all who participate in public discourse — in particular supporters of political parties and candidates — to uphold the highest standards of integrity, restraint and respect for our multicultural society,” he said.
He said clean elections are essential to maintaining trust in democratic institutions and ensuring political competition strengthens, rather than divides, the nation.
The President reminded Parliament that democracy is an ongoing responsibility that extends beyond electoral victories and losses.
He urged leaders to set the tone for peaceful, inclusive and issue-based campaigning, adding that how elections are conducted will ultimately shape Fiji’s political maturity and social cohesion.
President Lalabalavu said history would judge not only electoral outcomes, but whether Fiji’s elections were conducted fairly, lawfully and in a manner that respects all citizens.
