The use of State resources should be prohibited during political campaigns, says Electoral Commission chairperson Suresh Chandra.
His statement was part of the Commission’s submission to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Justice, Law, and Human Rights on the Electoral Amendment Bill 2021.
He also said the Bill has removed the restriction on political party identification and would allow the Supervisor of Elections (SoE) to determine whether it should contain the political party name or symbol – or any other information – as approved by the SoE.
“This amendment by Parliament will allow a voter to identify their candidate by the Party,” he said.
“Since nominations in Fiji are by party lists, and also considering that the electoral system is based on parties, having the symbols or names of parties on the national candidate’s list will make the process more consistent.”
He said Section 113(4A) of Electoral Amendment Bill 2021 made it unlawful for the use of Government vehicles during campaigns.
“The Electoral Commission notes that in 2018, the media highlighted one candidate who went in his official vehicle to campaign in Cunningham,” he said.
“The change in the law is welcome particularly in terms of leveling the playing field.”
The Commission also recommended that the campaign period be defined in the law for effective monitoring and implementation of the laws.
“Section 109A has been insert in the law and it clearly defines the campaign period as starting not earlier than 30 days before the completion of three years six months from the first sitting of parliament after the last General Election and ends no later than 48 hours prior to the date of the General Election.”
Mr Chandra said it was the view of the Commission that this was an essential amendment as it would clarify campaign laws and the enforcement of the rules relating to the campaign.
