FEO rejects misconduct claims

The Fijian Elections Office (FEO) has firmly rejected a legal demand accusing the Supervisor of Elections, four FEO officers, and the office itself of malicious prosecution and misconduct in public office.

In a formal response from its lawyers, Krishna & Co Lawyers, the FEO stated that the claims, outlined in a notice issued on June 29, lack any legal or factual basis. The office asserts that its employees acted in good faith and diligently performed their duties in accordance with the law. It further clarified that an acquittal in a criminal case does not automatically render public officials legally liable for their actions.

The FEO emphasized that the responsibility for decisions regarding criminal investigations and prosecutions rests solely with the Fiji Police Force and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. The Elections Office itself does not make these determinations. Additionally, the FEO highlighted that its officers are protected under the Electoral Act for actions undertaken in good faith while carrying out their official duties.

Consequently, the legal demand has been entirely dismissed. The FEO considers the notice an abuse of process and indicated its readiness to defend the matter in court should legal proceedings be initiated. The office reiterated its commitment to upholding its constitutional responsibilities in a fair, professional, and independent manner, aiming to maintain public confidence in Fiji's electoral system.