The Electoral Commission of the Republic of Fiji and the Fijian Elections Office today officially received four (4) vehicles donated by the Government of the Republic of India, reinforcing the longstanding partnership between the two countries and strengthening preparations for the upcoming General Election.
The vehicles were formally presented by His Excellency Shri Suneet Mehta, High Commissioner of the Republic of India to Fiji, during an official handover ceremony at the Fijian Elections Office Warehouse in Laucala Beach Estate.
Speaking at the ceremony, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Justice Usaia Ratuvili, said the donation represented more than the transfer of vehicles.
“At first glance, today’s ceremony may appear to be simply the presentation of four (4) vehicles. However, it represents something far more significant. It reflects the enduring friendship between the Republic of Fiji and the Republic of India and is a testament to our shared commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting good governance. In that context, the donation of these vehicles is an investment in the institutional capacity of both the Electoral Commission and the Fijian Elections Office, strengthening our collective ability to deliver electoral services that are professional, impartial, accessible and responsive to the needs of the people we serve,” said Justice Ratuvili.
Justice Ratuvili expressed the sincere appreciation of the Electoral Commission and the Fijian Elections Office to the Government of India and His Excellency Shri Suneet Mehta for the generous contribution and for India’s continued support towards strengthening Fiji’s electoral processes and democratic institutions.
The four (4) vehicles will strengthen the operational capacity of the Fijian Elections Office by supporting voter registration and awareness activities, logistical operations, the delivery of electoral materials and equipment, and the provision of electoral services to communities throughout Fiji.
The ceremony was attended by members of the Electoral Commission, Commissioner Nemani Mati and Commissioner Reginald Jokhan; the Supervisor of Elections, Ms Ana Mataiciwa; Permanent Secretary for Justice, Ms Selina Kuruleca; Acting Deputy Supervisor of Elections, Ms Anaseini Senimoli; officials of the High Commission of India; and staff of the Fijian Elections Office.
The Permanent Secretary for Justice, Ms Selina Kuruleca, His Excellency Shri Suneet Mehta, High Commissioner of the Republic of India to Fiji, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Republic of Fiji, Justice Usaia Ratuvuli, Supervisor of Elections, Ms Ana Mataiciwa.
