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\f2\fs24\lang5129\langfe5129\cgrid\langnp5129\langfenp5129 {\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par At Suva
\par Civil Jurisdiction
\par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par CIVIL ACTION NO. 214 OF 1992
\par 
\par Between:
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 SAKEASI BUTADROKA}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332\charrsid15289332 
\par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Plaintiff
\par 
\par - and -
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 1.}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332\charrsid15289332  }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 ATTORNEY GENERAL}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332\charrsid15289332 
\par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 1st Defendant
\par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 2.}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332\charrsid15289332  }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 ELECTORAL COMMISSION}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332\charrsid15289332 
\par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 2nd Defendant
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\par Mr. T. Fa for the Plaintiff
\par Mr. F. Jitoko Solicitor General for the Defendants
\par }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx3969\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 JUDGMENT
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\par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 On the evening of the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  30th of April}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  this Court delivered a short 3 page ruling declaring that }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
"... Regulation 15(10) of the Electoral (Conduct of Election) Regulations 1992 in so far as it seeks to impose a deposit of
 $1,000 on candidates contesting the election is unconstitutional and to that extent cannot stand and is accordingly declared to be void."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par 
\par Owing to the constitutional importance and extreme urgency in the matter this Court reserved to itself the opportunity to give full reasons for its decision.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 This I now proceed to do.
\par 
\par The originating summons seeking the above declaration was filed and served on all relevant parties on the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  24th of April 1992}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 .}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
The application was supported by 5 affidavits filed by senior members and officials of 5 major political parties that were seeking to contest the then impending }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
General Elections}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  which were subsequently held between the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  23rd}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  and}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  30th of May 1992}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 .
\par 
\par There was no affidavit in reply filed by any of the respondents but the Chairman of the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Electoral Commission}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  gave sworn evidence}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  (under protest)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  at the hearing and the learned }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Solicitor-General}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  addressed the Court in opposing the application.
\par 
\par The application bears a fairly narrow ambit and necessitates an examination of the provisions of the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Electoral Decree 1991}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 .}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 The }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Electoral }{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 (Conduct of Elections)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Regulations 1992}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  made pursuant to the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Electoral Decree}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  and the Constitutional provisions protecting the }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
Fundamental Rights and Freedoms of the Individual}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  especially those relating to an individual's right to assemble and associate freely }{
\b\i\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 and}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  to be protected from discrimination.
\par 
\par In this latter regard learned counsel for the applicant argued that a nomination fee of }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 $1,000}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  unlawfully discriminated against }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "the poor"}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  as opposed to }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "the rich"}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 .}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
I cannot agree.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 The requirement of a }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 $1,000}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 refundable deposit on nomination is a general requirement which applies to all persons who are nominated for election to parliament.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 It applies to both rich and poor 
\par 
\par alike and although it may cast an unequal burden on the latter that does not in my view render the requirement }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "discriminatory"}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  in terms of }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Article 16}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  of the Constitution.
\par 
\par I propose at this stage to set out in some detail the evidence which was produced before the Court at the hearing of the case.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 The Court had before it the following affidavits in support of the application}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 :}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 (1)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Sakeasi Bakewa Butadroka}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  the President of the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  Fijian Nationalist United Front}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 ;
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 (2)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Navin Maharaj}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  the General Secretary of the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  Fiji Labour Party}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 ;
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 (3)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Osea Turaga Gavidi}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  a member of the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  Soqosoqo Ni Taukei Ni Vanua}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 ;
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 (4)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Kinijioji Maivalili}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  a member of the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  New Labour Party}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11946116 ;}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid11946116  and}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 (5)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  a member of the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  Soqosoqo Ni Vakavuilewa Ni Taukei}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 .
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par In addition the Court heard oral evidence from }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Sakeasi Butadroka}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  and }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Josaia Waqa}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  to the effect that they had written to}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  His Excellency}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  the President}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  (both copied to the Electoral Commission)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 expressing their concern at the amount of the nomination fee required and seeking a reduction.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
Neither has been favoured with a reply.
\par 
\par In opposing the application the Chairman of the }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Electoral Commission}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Mr. Qoriniasi Babitu Bale}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  testified that the}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
requirement of a nomination fee or deposit was considered a common universal practice in all democracies and is imposed on aspiring candidates standing for elections.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 The primary concern being to try as far as possible to ensure an orderly and fair election by discouraging friv}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 o}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 lous candidates.
\par 
\par This reasoning was doubted however in the judgment of }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Chief Justice Burger}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 when he delivered the opinion of the Supreme Court of the United States in }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Lubin v. Panish}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  (1974) 415 U.S. 709 at }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 p.717}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  when he said}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 :}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
"Filing fees, however large, do not, in and of themselves, test the genuineness of a candidacy or the extent of the voter support of an aspirant for public office.}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
A large filing fee may serve the legitimate function of keeping ballots manageable, but, standing alone, it is not a certain test of whether the candidacy is serious or spurious."}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Then in words that might equally apply to the present situation the learned}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 Chief Justice}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  said at }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 p.718}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
"As we have noted, the payment of a fee is an absolute, not an alternative condition, and failure to meet it is a disqualification from running for office ...}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Selection of candidates sol
ely on the basis of ability to pay a fixed fee without providing any alternative means is not reasonably necessary to the accomplishment of the State's legitimate election interests.}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Accordingly, we hold that in the absence of reasonable alternative means 
of ballot access, a State may not, consistent with constitutional standards, require from an indigent candidate filing fees he cannot pay."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par Under cross-examination }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Mr. Bale}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  testified that the }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 $1,000}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  figure arrived at }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "... was the Commission's own deliberate decision"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 .}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 (Whatever that might mean.)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 He accepted however that the nomination fee for previous elections was }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 $100}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  but that figure was considered }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 ... too low'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 .}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
In any event this was a }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "... new fee ..."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  being set under a }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "... new Electoral Decree ..."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  made under a }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "... new Constitution ..."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 .
\par 
\par He frankly admitted that in setting the figure the Commission had not considered individual income levels, }{\b\i\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 or}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  earning capacities }{\b\i\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 nor}{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 had it sought representations }{
\b\i\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 or}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  public comment }{
\b\i\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 or}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  consulted with any interested parties.}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Neither does there appear to have been any effort made to obtain any }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 statistical data'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  which might have assisted the Commission in its deliberations.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par 
\par If I may say so after hearing and considering the evidence of }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Mr. Bale}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 this Court was left with the distinctly unfavourable impression that the figure of }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 $1,000}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  was an entirely arbitrary one quite unrelated to the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  }{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 economic realities'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  of the situation prevailing in Fiji.
\par 
\par Having said that however the Court accepts that some regulation is envisaged i
n the legislative scheme of enactments and is necessary in the holding of orderly parliamentary elections, particularly, in regard to the number of candidates standing for election.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par 
\par Many legitimate reasons may be advanced in support of such a restriction }{\b\i\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 including}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
, limiting the size of the ballot; reducing the potential for voter confusion; ensuring that the candidate who eventually wins is the choice of the majority of the popular vote; meeting the costs of the election and maintaining the integrity of t
he electoral process.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par 
\par This Court is also mindful that alternative methods exist for controlling and qualifying persons who seek nomination for public office such as}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  residency restrictions}
{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 , }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 and}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  demonstrated support limitations }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 e.g.}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  by requiring every aspiring candidate to be nominated by 100 voters }{\b\i\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 or}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  a reasonable percentage of registered voters in his constituency. 
\par 
\par It is true as was pointed out by the learned }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Solicitor-General}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 that the Constitution nowhere expressly recognises a }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 right'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  to be a candidate for election to parliament as opposed to a }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 right to vote'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  at elections,}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 but as was said in the opinion of the Supreme Court of the United States in }{
\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Bullock v. Carter}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 405 U.S. 134}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  (again delivered by Chief Justice Burger)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  at }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 p.142}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 :}
{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "The rights of voters
 and the rights of candidates do not lend themselves to neat separation; laws that affect candidates always have at least some theoretical, correlative effect on voters ...}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Many potential office seekers lacking both personal wealth and affluent backers are
 in every practical sense precluded from seeking the nomination of their chosen party, no matter how qualified they may be, and no matter how broad or enthusiastic their popular support.}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 The effect on voters is neither incidental nor remote.}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Then there is the question of an individual's freedom of assembly and association which is clearly recognised in }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Article 14}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  of the Constitution in the following relevant terms}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
"... no person shall be hindered in his enjoyment of his freedom of assembly and associat
ion, that is to say, his right to assemble freely and associate with other persons and in particular to form or belong to trade unions or other associations for the protection of his interests."}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par The learned }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Solicitor-General}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  (and Mr. Bale)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  could see no necessary link between the requirement of a }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 $1,000}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  deposit and the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "right to associate"}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 , nor was the enjoyment of the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "right"}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  impaired in anyway by the deposit.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 With all due respect I cannot agree.
\par 
\par To }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 hinder'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  is defined in the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Shorter Oxford English Dictionary}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  as meaning (amongst others)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 :}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "To delay or frustrate action; to be an obstacle or impediment."}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par In the circumstances of this case can be truly said that the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 $1,000}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 deposit required of election candidates does not }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 hinder'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  their freedom to associate with other candidates in a political campaign under a common party}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 ?}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  }{\b\i\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 or}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  with voters who may wish to vote for them? I think not.
\par 
\par In }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Kusper v. Pontikes}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  414 U.S. 51 }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Mr. Justice Stewart}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 in delivering the opinion of the Supreme Court of the United States said of the }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
right to associate freely'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  at }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 p.55}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
"There can no longer be any doubt that freedom to associate with others for the common advancement of political beliefs and ideas is a form of (protected) orderly group activity.}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 The right to associate with the political party of one's choice is an integral part of this basic constitutional freedom.
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
To be sure, administration of the electoral process is a matter that the Constitution largely entrusts to the States.}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 But in exercising their powers of supervision over elections and in setting qualifications ... the States may not infringe upon basic constitutional protections ..."}
{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par In that regard this Court too is firmly of the opinion that in fixing a nomination deposit of }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 $1,000}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  without any alternative means of seeking nomination for election, the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
Electoral Commission}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  has substantially and effectively }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "hindered"}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  the enjoyment of the right of voters and candidates to associate freely for the advancement of their common political interests.
\par 
\par In my view the right to vot
e and the right to stand for election are so inextricably bound up that any form of restriction imposed on candidates seeking nomination for election directly impacts on the right of voters to form political associations with and vote for like-minded pers
ons of their choice in the pursuit of their legitimate political and ideological interests.
\par 
\par Needless to say a nomination deposit which is so high as to effectively debar the nomination of serious}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  (albeit impecunious)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  candidates hinders in a not insignificant manner the availability of sympathetic persons with whom }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "the poorer}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 voter"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  may wish to associate in the furtherance of his interests.
\par 
\par As was said by }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Chief Justice Burger}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  in }{
\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Lubin v. Panish}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  (op cit) at }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 pp. 715 and 716}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 :}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "This legitimate state interest
 however, must be achieved by a means that does not unfairly or unnecessarily burden either a minority party's or an individual candidate's equally important interest in the continued availability of political opportunity.}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 The interest involved are not mer
ely those of parties or individual candidates; the voters can assert their preferences only through candidates or parties or both and it is this broad interest that must be weighed in the balance.}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 The right of a party or an individual to a place on a ballo
t is entitled to protection and is inter twined with the rights of voters ..."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par and later
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
"It is to be expected that a voter hopes to find on the ballot a candidate who comes near to reflecting his policy preferences on contemporary issues.}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 This does not 
mean every voter can be assured that a candidate to his liking will be on the ballot, but the process of qualifying candidates for a place on the ballot may not constitutionally be measured solely in dollars."}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par In dealing with the issues raised in this case I have also been much assisted by the judgment of the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  Full Supreme Court of Papua New Guinea}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  in }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Supreme Court Reference No. 2 of 1982}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  in which the Ombudsman's Commission referred to the Court for its opinion, a law not unlike our }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Regulation 15(10)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  increa
sing the deposit for parliamentary election candidates from 100 to 1000 Kina.
\par 
\par In its preliminary ruling on the reference the Court held that the law in question was made in a manner not allowed by the Constitution and was therefore invalid.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par 
\par Then in its more detailed reasons}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  (provided later)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 the Court held, that the requirement of a K1000 nomination fee denied to a majority of eligible citizens their reasonable opportunity to stand for elections }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 and}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  further that}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  }{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 the law'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 in question, was not }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "reasonably justifiable in a democratic society"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 .

\par 
\par Needless to say unlike in the present case, in that case the Papua New Guinea Supreme Court was provided with a great deal of statistical material which dealt }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
inter alia}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  with various well-recognised economic indicators}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 such as - the proportion of the population wholly engaged in subsistence agriculture; minimum wage levels; the proportion of population earning a regular cash income; average wage levels of public servants and average per capita income figures.}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par 
\par Even if it were arguable that }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Regulation 15(10)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  of the }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Electoral}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  (Conduct of Elections)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Regulations 1992}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  requiring the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 $1,000}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  nomination deposit was }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "a law in the interests of public order"}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 , nevertheless the Regulation would need, in addition, }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "... to be reasonabl
y justifiable in a democratic society"}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 .}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par 
\par In this latter regard }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Kapi J. }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
in the afore-mentioned Papua New Guinea case in a comprehensive and detailed analysis of the phrase }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "... not reasonably justifiable in a democratic society ..."}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  adopted the test of}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  "reasonableness"}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  formulated by }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Patanjali Sastri C.J.}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  in }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 The State of Madras v. V.G. Row}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 AIR}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  (1952) S.C. 196 when he said at }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 p.200}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
"... the test of reasonableness, wherever prescribed should be applied to each individual statute impugned and no abstract standard or general pattern, ... can be laid down as applicable to all cases.}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
The nature of the right alleged to have been infringed, the underlying purpose of the restrictions imposed, the extent and urgency of the evil sought to be remedied thereby, the disp
roportion of the imposition, the prevailing conditions at the time, should all enter into the judicial verdict ..."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par With respect I too would adopt the above }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "test"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 as applicable to the interpretation of what is }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "reasonably justifiable"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 in the context of the present Constitution.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Furthermore insofar as the }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 rights'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 claimed to be infringed are designated }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 fundamental'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 , this Court in my view is called upon to adopt an attitude of}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  }{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 strict scrutiny'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 .
\par 
\par A tangible illustration of what is }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 NOT}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  "reasonably justifiable"}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  occurred recently in }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Papua New Guinea }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 where its Full Supreme Court in }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Supreme Court Reference No. 1 of 1992}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  (unreported)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 again on a reference from the Ombudsman's Commission struck down an electoral law which required the forfeiture of the deposit of an unsuccessful candidate for election.
\par 
\par In so holding the Court said at }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 p.10}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 :}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
"In our judgment, the sum of K1000 deposit is a very high one in a democratic society, given the circumstances of the country ... even where it may be said that a communal life means that individuals will be supported and be able to obtain this amount.}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
It would certainly have the effect of ensuring that the act of nominating is regarded with appropriate seriousness.}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 But for what reason should it be forfeited if a candidate remains unelected}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 ? }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 In our judgment it is not }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 reasonably justifiable' for the purpose of regulating the right to a reasonable opportunity to be elected to elective public office."}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par Conversely in }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Morgan v. Attorney General for Trinidad and}{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Tobago}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  (1988) 1 W.L.R.
 297 the Privy Council upheld as "reasonably justifiable" legislation which infringed a landlord's right to enjoy his property by depriving him of higher rent otherwise obtainable.
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Lord Templeman}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  in delivering the judgment of the Court observed at }{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 p.299}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  

\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
"Statutory rent restrictions imposed on dwelling-houses have long been features of many societies which maintain proper respect for the rights and freedoms of the individual, including the right to enjoy property.}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 The legislature of such a society consid
ers that it is reasonably justifiable to limit the income which a landlord derives from his investment in order to limit the rent which a tenant must pay for his home.}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Rent restrictions are justified by the need to prevent a landlord exploiting a shortage of housing accommodation."}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par And further at }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 p.300}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 :}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
"Every administration in a democratic society retains power to counter rent rises by rent control.}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 The likelihood of rent control legislation and the form of rent control legislation depend on the current 
state of housing shortages and on the current political and economic philosophy of the administration."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par In the present case whilst the Court accepts that the Electoral Commission was properly empowered to enact }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{
\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 a law'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  requiring a nomination fee the amount fixed however}{
\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  prima facie}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  contravenes a voter's }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 right to vote'}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  and hinders the applicant's }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332 '}{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 freedom to associate'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  freely.
\par 
\par The }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Solicitor-General}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
 as the proponent of the law in question accordingly has the burden of proving that the law in question satisfies the criteria laid down in }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 Article 14(2)}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  of the Constitution.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15289332  }{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 This he has failed to do and the Court is driven to conclude that the amount of $1,000 is }{
\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 not}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332  }{
\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 "... reasonably justifiable in a democratic society in which all peoples may to the full extent of their capacity play some part in the institutions of national life"
}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 .}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par 
\par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 For the above reasons this Court made the declaration set out in the beginning of this judgment.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx3969\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 (D.V. Fatiaki)
\par }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 JUDGE
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 At Suva,
\par 31st July, 1992.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid15289332 
\par }\pard \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11946116 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid9455428\charrsid9455428 Hbc0214j.92s}{
\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15823976\charrsid9455428 
\par }}