The Electoral Commission (EC) reaffirms its commitment to exercising its constitutional and statutory responsibilities independently and impartially as it considers matters relating to the announced National Referendum 2026 and the upcoming General Election.
In its response to the Centre of Democracy and Dialogue’s letters of 05 and 06 October 2026 raising serious concerns about the suspension of campaigning even before the third reading of the Constitution Amendment Bill, the Commission will give the matter serious consideration before making any decision.
We will deliberate and consider the extent of the discretion provided under section 15(2) of the National Referendum Act 2026 that provides guidance when the discretion is activated, and whether it should be exercised, including the reasons for and against doing so and the potential impacts of either approach.
We acknowledge that referenda and elections are not mutually exclusive and, under favourable conditions, can be conducted simultaneously without significant detriment to either event. This will be among the factors considered by the Commission.
Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Justice Usaia Ratuvili, reiterates that the request received from the Honourable Prime Minister will be thoroughly reviewed before a decision can be made.
“We take very seriously our Constitutional and statutory duties to conduct free and fair elections, impartially, and devoid of any direction or control of any person or authority,” said Justice Ratuvili.
We are considering all our functions, duties and powers set out in the National Referendum Act 2026, including the discretion in section 15(2) of the same. Once a decision is made regarding the exercise of that discretion, the Prime Minister will be informed, and it will be announced via a media release.
In the meantime, preparations for the General Election will continue alongside the preparations for the announced National Referendum 2026.