Fiji's NFP Accuses Minister of Twisting Electoral Act Over School Hall Use

Fiji's National Federation Party (NFP) has accused Education Minister Aseri Radrodro of twisting the Electoral Act by imposing restrictions on the use of school halls for political meetings. The accusation follows Radrodro's statement that the Ministry requires prior approval for any political party campaigns held in schools.

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The Minister’s interpretation is excessive and gives the Ministry authority over facilities it does not own.

The NFP contends that Section 113 of the Electoral Act specifically prohibits campaign activities within public offices but does not ban political meetings in all schools or public infrastructure. NFP General Secretary Kamal Iyer stated that the minister's interpretation is excessive and grants the Ministry authority over facilities it does not own. The party highlighted that many schools are owned and maintained by communities, churches, religious organizations, and education societies, with halls often rented out for events outside school hours.

Iyer described the requirement for school management committees to seek approval from the Permanent Secretary before allowing political meetings as undemocratic. While the NFP acknowledges that teachers, as public officers, must refrain from political campaigning, it rejects what it calls an attempt to prevent community-owned schools from independently deciding on the use of their facilities after hours. The party asserts that government funding for teachers and regulation of education standards do not transform every school compound into a public office.

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requiring school management committees to seek approval from the Permanent Secretary before allowing political meetings is undemocratic.

The NFP affirmed its commitment to complying with the Electoral Act but will not accept what it terms a distorted interpretation of Section 113. The party urged Minister Radrodro to properly read the law, respect school management committees, and immediately withdraw the directive.

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will not accept what it describes as a distorted interpretation of Section 113.