A proposed political party that initially sought registration under the name FijiansFirst has returned with a new identity — One Nation.
Registrar of Political Parties Ana Mataiciwa confirmed today that the proposed One Nation has formally submitted its application for registration as a political party.
The earlier application under the name FijiansFirst was rejected because the proposed name was considered too similar to the deregistered FijiFirst party and likely to cause confusion under the Political Parties (Registration, Conduct, Funding and Disclosures) Act 2013.
Section 8(h)(iii) of the Act requires the Registrar to refuse registration if the proposed party’s name, abbreviation, acronym or symbol closely resembles that of a deregistered political party.
Ms Mataiciwa said preparations are now underway to publish One Nation’s application in a newspaper and in the Fiji Government Gazette, as required under the law.
Once published, the statutory objections period will begin, allowing members of the public to formally object to the proposed party’s registration.
“During the objections period, any person may submit a written objection to the Registrar regarding the party’s application for registration. The Registrar will assess and determine all objections within seven days of receipt after giving the proposed party an opportunity to respond,” Ms Mataiciwa said.
She said the Registrar would determine whether One Nation satisfies all legal requirements under the Act before any decision is made on registration.
Ms Mataiciwa also stressed the importance of transparency and public participation in the political party registration process.
The deregistration of FijiFirst earlier this year triggered renewed political activity, with several former members and supporters indicating interest in forming or joining new political movements ahead of future elections.
