Fiji: Provisional election results released November 14 /update 1

Event

The Fiji Elections Office has released provisional results following the general election, which took place on Wednesday, November 14. Preliminary results reportedly indicate FijiFirst, led by incumbent Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama, has received a majority of votes. According to local reports and elections monitors, the vote largely took place with no significant security incidents, although severe weather prompted the closure of at least 28 polling stations. The Fijian government indicated a media blackout will remain in place until it determines when the polling stations affected by weather will re-open. An increased security presence is likely for the duration of the election period.

Context

According to preliminary results, the FijiFirst party received 51.6 percent of the vote, with the Social Democratic Liberal Party coming in second at 38.1 percent. The Elections Office will reportedly announce when voting will resume at polling stations closed due to weather in the coming days.

Advice

Individuals in Fiji are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.