12 Nov 2018

Only minor glitches in Fiji election say observers

5:20 am on 12 November 2018

The multinational observer group watching Fiji's elections says they have seen no evidence of wrongdoing to date.

Voters in remote areas went to the polls last week and the group says there have been only minor glitches.

MOG co-chair Jane Prentice

MOG co-chair Jane Prentice Photo: RNZ Koroi Hawkins

There have been reports of some voters not finding themselves on the voter list and one of the group's members Jane Prentice said they had encountered some such cases.

"We can assure you that our observers will continue to monitor this issue on Election Day and detail our observations following the election. This issue also highlights the need for voters to ensure they check the polling station where they are registered to vote on Election Day."

Ms Prentice said observer teams saw election officials assisting people however they could in line with electoral laws.

The MOG's initial observations would be outlined two days after the 14 November election and a final report issued as soon as possible, Ms Prentice said.

"We will be looking at electoral processes based on both Fiji's national legal framework as well as good international practices."

She said while the political debate has been animated and spirited, the campaign period had been calm and peaceful.

"We encourage all parties to continue to conduct themselves in this way during and after the announcement of the results.

"It is imperative that all candidates seek to address any complaints related to the electoral process through established legal and constitutional channels."