The Fijian Elections Office (FEO) has referred the People’s Alliance Deputy Party leaders, Lynda Tabuya and Dan Lobendahn to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) for probable breaches of Sections 114, Section 116(3)(h) and Section 140 of the Electoral Act.
In a statement, Supervisor of Elections, Mohammed Saneem said these complaints arise from responses received from Ms Tabuya and the People’s Alliance in relation to Rock The Vote Fiji.
“The FEO has noted from Ms Tabuya’s response that she is the creator, funder and facilitator of Rock The Vote Fiji,” Mr Saneem said.
“Ms Tabuya has also informed the FEO that she is the person that has funded all the activities of Rock The Vote Fiji.
“As earlier highlighted by the FEO, it was noted that Rock The Vote Fiji had engaged in activities that were direct campaign for individuals from People’s Alliance and Ms Tabuya has confirmed that by virtue of her funding and creating the organization.
“It is undisputable based on the evidence that the FEO has received particularly in responses from Ms Tabuya that Rock The Vote Fiji did not only serve the purpose of encouraging people to register but also was a platform to provide gifts, prizes, sponsorships, merchandise and holding of sporting events.
“Under the Electoral Act, such actions are prohibited during the campaign period,” Mr Saneem explained.
The FEO also notes that there were various agencies, institutions, businesses and clubs that were engaged by Rock The Vote Fiji for the provision of various sporting activities and awards and prizes.
“We wish to reiterate that companies and businesses are not allowed to donate to political parties and candidates in the general election and there are severe penalties for any businesses that engage in such conduct,” Mr Saneem said.
