Fiji Electoral Commission rejects former official's call for independent investigation

The Electoral Commission of Fiji has denied a request from former Supervisor of Elections Mohammed Saneem to form an Independent Investigation Committee. Saneem had sought the committee to investigate the conduct of four officials within the Fijian Elections Office. In its response, the Commission stated that creating such a committee falls beyond its constitutional authority.

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The Commission says it had considered Saneem’s request but determined that establishing such a committee falls outside its constitutional mandate.

The Commission also acknowledged the findings of the Chief Justice in Criminal Case HAC 165 of 2025S, which led to the acquittal of Saneem and former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum on June 26, 2026. It clarified that disciplinary actions concerning the Supervisor of Elections are the responsibility of the Constitutional Offices Commission (COC). The Commission noted that Saneem has already filed a complaint with the COC, indicating it will defer to that body's constitutionally mandated process.

Regarding the four Fijian Elections Office officials, the Commission pointed out that their appointments, terms, and conditions, including removal, are under the purview of the Supervisor of Elections and thus outside the Electoral Commission's jurisdiction. While refusing to launch its own inquiry, the Commission reaffirmed its role as the custodian of the electoral process. It highlighted its powers under the Electoral Act 2014 to oversee the Supervisor of Elections' work and issue directives when necessary.

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Disciplinary matters relating to the Supervisor of Elections are the responsibility of the Constitutional Offices Commission, and confirmed that Saneem has already lodged a complaint with that body.

The Commission concluded by assuring stakeholders that preparations for the upcoming General Election are progressing well and that election readiness remains on track.

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The Commission added that preparations for the next General Election are well underway and assured stakeholders that election readiness remains on track.