Representatives of Registered Political Parties; and
members of my FEO family.
Ara na yadra, and a victorious morning to you all.
I would like to warmly welcome all registered political party representatives joining us here today.
As you are aware, the Campaign Period for the upcoming General Election commenced on 25 May 2026.
Following the commencement of the Campaign Period, and the publication of the list of public places approved for placing campaign materials, the Fijian Elections Office is conducting a series of Campaign Restrictions Workshops for key electoral stakeholders, including political parties, candidates, the media, civil society organisations, faith-based organisations, and other stakeholders.
Today’s session is specifically focused on you, our registered political parties, as key participants in the electoral process.
Today also marks an important point in our electoral timeline. As of today, 24 June 2026, Fiji has now entered the possible period in which the Writ for the General Election may be issued. This means that we are moving closer towards the formal election timeline, and it is important that all electoral stakeholders are familiar with their roles, responsibilities, and obligations under the electoral laws.
Political parties play an important role in any election. You are responsible for engaging with voters, communicating your policies, and participating in the democratic process through your campaign activities.
The purpose of today’s workshop is to provide clarity on the legal provisions that guide campaigning during the Campaign Period. We will take you through the relevant requirements under the electoral laws, including what political parties, candidates, party officials, and campaign representatives can and cannot do.
You will also be provided with an overview of restrictions applicable to other stakeholders, including the media, civil society organisations, and other individuals, to assist you in understanding the wider campaign environment.
I wish to emphasise that this workshop is purely informative. It is intended to ensure that all political parties have a clear understanding of the electoral framework, their responsibilities, and the rules that apply throughout the Campaign Period.
A well-informed electoral environment benefits everyone. Understanding these requirements assists political parties in conducting their campaign activities confidently while ensuring compliance with the electoral laws.
If there are any areas that require clarification, I encourage you to raise them during today’s session. The Fijian Elections Office team is here to assist you in understanding the processes and requirements.
As participants in the electoral process, your commitment to complying with the electoral laws contributes towards a campaign environment that is transparent, respectful, and fair for all stakeholders.
I encourage you to actively participate, ask questions, and provide feedback as we continue working together towards the successful delivery of the upcoming General Election.
With those few words, I now declare the Political Parties Workshop on Campaign Restrictions open.
I wish you all a productive and informative workshop.
Vinaka vakalevu.
