In a major step toward securing free and fair elections, Fiji’s top security and electoral bodies yesterday signed the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the Election Security Advisory Group (ESAG).
It formalises their commitment to work together to ensure the integrity of the country’s electoral process.
The signing ceremony, held in Suva, brought together senior representatives from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), the Fiji Police Force, the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC), and the Fijian Elections Office (FEO), which will serve as the Secretariat of the group.
Supervisor of Elections, Ana Mataiciwa, said the formation and formalisation of ESAG reflects a joint pledge to the Fijian people.
“The signing of the ToR is more than a formality; it is a collective pledge to the people of Fiji that their elections will be conducted in a secure and trustworthy environment,” Ms Mataiciwa said.
“Through ESAG, we strengthen our cooperation and readiness to ensure free, fair, and credible elections.”
Commander of the RFMF, Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu, and FICAC’s Manager Investigations, Mosese Matanisiga, who signed on behalf of the Acting Commissioner, all underlined the importance of the initiative in boosting operational preparedness.
In a joint statement, the officials said the ESAG would act as a coordinated platform for information sharing, joint planning, and timely response to electoral security issues.
“The ESAG is a critical pillar in ensuring that the voices of Fijians are protected through a safe and secure electoral environment,” the statement read.
Under the signed ToR, the FEO will lead coordination efforts, provide technical support, and facilitate regular meetings to anticipate and respond to potential election-related threats.
