Ballot paper amendment expected before next election

An amendment to general election ballot papers is expected to be introduced during the next sitting of Parliament. Electoral Commission (EC) chairperson Justice Usaia Ratuvili said the proposed changes reflect feedback gathered during recent public consultations.

Dewan Chand, 71, of Batiri, Macuata, suggested that including candidates’ names and photographs on ballot papers would make voting easier for older people.

“It is easier to recognise people by their faces and names. Numbers are hard to remember for older people like me who are going to vote,” he said.

Seaqaqa cane farmer Faiyaz Khan urged the Fijian Elections Office (FEO) to consider the needs of older voters.

“Some of us find it difficult to read small numbers, and at this age some people cannot afford reading glasses. If the FEO really wants people to vote, it should consider making ballot papers more readable and easier to understand. I am suggesting that candidates’ photos be printed on the ballot paper so we can see them and cast our vote,” he said.

Karalaini Damudamu, who lives in Valelevu, Nasinu, shared similar views.

“I think it is a good idea to have the names and pictures of the candidates on the ballot paper. Voting is an important exercise, and we need to make sure we are voting for the right person to lead our country over the next four years,” she said.

Ba farmer Olivia Likusiga said she preferred having candidates’ photographs on the ballot paper.

“That way it feels more user-friendly,” she said.

Tucibi Matavesi of Taveuni said both the party emblem and the candidate’s photograph should be included.

“It would help people in rural areas identify who they are voting for.”

Eshriya Jeshi said photographs and names would make the process easier, particularly for young voters and people with special needs.

“Both should be included. As a youth, we want the ballot paper to be clear and easy for people, including those with special needs, to identify,” she said.

Justice Ratuvili said that of the three major issues raised by Fijians, the ballot paper layout was the only one the Commission could realistically address before the next election.

“We are trying to accommodate this request within our existing infrastructure. If we factor in our currently registered parties, new parties and others that may join, fitting everyone on the ballot becomes highly complex.

“If we end up with 11 parties, each fielding 55 candidates, managing that on a single ballot paper will be a massive undertaking.”

Despite the logistical challenges and associated costs, Justice Ratuvili said the Commission had the resources needed to implement the change.