2022 General Election : Farmer takes time off to vote

YOUNG farmer Vonivate Batitoa took time-off from farming on Monday to vote at Natawa Village in the Nadi highlands.

Mr Batitoa said his elders convinced him to vote for his future’s sake.

He was one of the few first-time voters who voted at the Natawa community hall when pre-polling for 2022 General Election began on Monday.

Mr Batitoa said he was always focusing on his budding rugby career and voting was a way of exercising his right as a young Fijian.

The 19-year-old took up farming last year after completing his secondary studies at Ratu Navula College in Nadi.

He was looking forward to voting because it was his first time to do so.

“I’ve heard so much about the general election growing up and I’m glad that I am able to vote this year,” Mr Batitoa said.

“It is quite an experience for me especially the voting process and the elections officials have been very helpful.

“After today’s (Monday) experience, I will continue to vote and let my voice be heard.”