Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that Fiji’s National Referendum will be held on Wednesday, 9 December 2026, giving eligible Fijians the opportunity to exercise their democratic right and decide on the question or questions that will be put before them.
The announcement follows the assent by His Excellency the President, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, to the National Referendum Act 2026 on Friday, 2 October 2026.
Prime Minister Rabuka said different views are a normal and important part of democracy and encouraged Fijians to ask questions, seek information and make their own informed decisions. He called for the national conversation to be conducted peacefully and respectfully.
The National Referendum will be administered by the Supervisor of Elections under the direction of the Electoral Commission and in accordance with the law. The Government will respect the independence of the electoral institutions throughout the process.
To allow the referendum process to proceed with the necessary focus, the Prime Minister has written to the Electoral Commission requesting the suspension of all general election campaigning until after the return of the Writ for the Referendum.
Key dates announced are:
• 2 October 2026 – President assented to the National Referendum Act 2026.
• 9 November 2026 – President expected to issue the Writ for the Referendum.
• 9 December 2026 – National Referendum polling day.
• By 14 December 2026 – Referendum results expected to be announced, subject to completion of the processes required by law.
Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Usaia Ratuvili and Supervisor of Elections Ms Ana Mataiciwa will provide further information on electoral arrangements. Fijians are encouraged to rely on official information from the Electoral Commission and the Fijian Elections Office.
“When 9 December comes, the decision will be yours. Exercise your democratic right. Make your choice. Let your voice be heard,” Prime Minister Rabuka said.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka‘s statement: https://bit.ly/3VuXebx