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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT SUVA
\par }{\b\insrsid535586\charrsid535586 CIVIL JURISDICTION
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid535586\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 CIVIL ACTIONS NO. HBC0407J OF 2001S
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\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\b\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 JOHN ALI}{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  s/o Sher Mohammed of Lot 111,
\par Kalia Court, Nakasi Park Estate, Nasinu,
\par Fiji, Travel Agent.}{\insrsid535586 
\par }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Petitioner
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\b\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 ISOA TIKOCA}{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  of Suva, Fiji, Commissioner
\par Central and Returning Officer for Nausori/Naitasiri
\par Open Constituency.}{\insrsid535586 
\par }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 1st Respondent
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
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\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\b\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 WALTER RIGAMOTO}{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  of Suva, Fiji
\par Supervisor of Elections.}{\insrsid535586 
\par }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 2nd Respondent
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\b\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 PENIASI SILATOLU}{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  of Nasinu, Fiji,
\par Postmaster}{\insrsid535586 
\par }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 3rd Respondent
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 CIVIL ACTIONS NO. HBC0417J OF 2001S
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
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\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\b\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 JOELI KALOU}{\insrsid535586\charrsid535586  }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 of 98 Vesivesi Road, Laucala
\par Beach Estate , Suva, Fiji, Industrial Relations
\par Officer.}{\insrsid535586 
\par }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Petitioner
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
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\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\b\insrsid8023293\charrsid13314823 ISOA TIKOCA}{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  of Suva, Fiji, Commissioner
\par Central and Returning Officer for Nausori/Naitasiri
\par Open Constituency}{\insrsid535586 
\par }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 1st Respondent
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\b\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 WALTER RIGAMOTO}{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  of Suva, Fiji
\par Supervisor of Elections.}{\insrsid535586 
\par }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 2nd Respondent
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\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\b\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 SOLOMONI NAIVALU}{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  of 144 Tabua Street,
\par Cunningham, Suva, Fiji, General Manager}{\insrsid535586 
\par }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 3rd Respondent
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
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\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 CIVIL ACTIONS NO. HBC0409J OF 2001S
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 BETWEEN:}{\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\b\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 LAVENIA KAU PADARATH}{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  of 57 Duncan Road, Suva, Fiji,
\par Nurse Administrator.
\par Petitioner
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 AND:}{\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\b\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 ISOA TIKOCA}{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  of Suva, Fiji, Commissioner
\par Central and Returning Officer for Nausori/Naitasiri
\par Open Constituency.}{\insrsid535586 
\par }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 1st Respondent
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 AND:}{\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\b\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 WALTER RIGAMOTO}{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  of Suva, Fiji
\par Supervisor of Elections.
\par 2nd Respondent
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 AND:}{\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13314823 {\b\insrsid8023293\charrsid13314823 ASAELI MASILACA}{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  of Nakini Village,
\par Nausori, Fiji, Retired General Manager.}{\insrsid535586 
\par }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 3rd Respondent
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Counsel for the Petitioners}{\insrsid535586\charrsid535586  }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 `:}{\insrsid535586\charrsid535586  }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 V. Mishra and - R. Prakash, Mishra Prakash & Associates
\par Counsel for the 1st and 2nd Respondents}{\insrsid535586\charrsid535586  }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 `:}{\insrsid535586\charrsid535586  }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Ms N S Baswaiya, Attorney-General\rquote s Chambers
\par Counsel for the 3rd Respondent}{\insrsid535586\charrsid535586  }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 `:}{\insrsid535586\charrsid535586  }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 J. Apted, Munro Leys & Co.}{\insrsid8023293 
\par }{\insrsid13314823\charrsid535586 
\par }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Date of Judgment:}{\insrsid535586\charrsid535586  }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 18 October 2002
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 JUDGMENT
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par There are three Petitions in this present proceedings.
\par 
\par When the Petitions were first called before me on 15 May 2002, the Counsel agreed that since legal issues were the same in all 3, they were more conveniently dealt with together.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 There were in addition similarities in some factual issues raised by each of them.
\par 
\par The Court had earlier ordered all the parties to file submissions on preliminary legal issues although there was yet to be an agreement on the procedures to be adopted}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 thereafter.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 On 15 May 2002, the Court ordered that submissions on the legal issue
s were to be dealt with in the first instance to decide whether prima facie cases had been established to allow further proceedings under the Electoral Act, 1998.
\par 
\par A brief outline of the contents of the 3 Petitions are as follows :
\par 
\par In HBC 407 of 2001 }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 John Ali vs. Isoa Tikoca & Ors}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 .}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 , }
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the Petitioner in his Amended Petition states that he was a Labour Party candidate for the Nasinu/Rewa Open Constituency in the August 2001 General Elections.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The elections held from 25th August 2001 to 1 September 2001, was co
nducted under the preferential system of voting otherwise known as alternative vote.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
On 5 September 2001, the Nasinu/Rewa Open Constituency result was announced by the Returning Officer, the First Respondent, with Peniasi Silatolu, the Third Respondent bei
ng declared the winner and duly elected as a Member of Parliament representing the Constituency.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The successful candidate received under the preferential system, 6652 votes, whilst the Petitioner received 6362 votes.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The majority required under the system was 6,508 votes.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Significantly, from the Petitioner\rquote 
s point of view, of the total 14,654 ballot papers cast, 1,640 were declared to be invalid.
\par 
\par In HBC No. 417 of 2001 : }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Joeli Kalou}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Isoa Tikoca & Ors.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 , the Petitioner states that he was a Labour Party candidate for the Cunningham Open Constituency in the August 2001 General Elections.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
On 6th September 2001 the result was announced by the Returning Officer, the First Respondent, with Solomoni Naivalu, the Third Respondent being declared the winner and duly elected as Member of Parliament for the Cunningham Open Constituency.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The successful candidate received 6902 votes whilst the Petitioner received 5382.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The majority required under the system was 6143 votes.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Of the total 13,674 ballot papers cast, 1390 were declared by the Returning Officer to be invalid.
\par 
\par In HBC 409 of 2001 : }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Lavinia Kau Padarath}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Isoa Tikoca & Ors.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 , the Petitioner was one of the six candidates in the August 2001 General Elections for the Nausori/Naitasiri Open Constituency.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 On 6th Septe
mber 2001, the Returning Officer, the First Respondent, declared Asaeli Masilaca the winner and duly elected Member of Parliament for the Nausori/Naitasiri Open Constituency.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Mr Masilaca received 6,790 votes whilst the Petitioner received 5140.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The majorit
y required for victory was 5,966 votes.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Again, as in the case of the other two Petitioners, the number of invalid votes were high being 1,306 of the total 13,236 ballots cast.
\par 
\par All 3 Petition seek declarations and/or determinations by the Court that the persons who were declared elected as Members of Parliament from their respective constituencies, were not in fact and}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 law elected.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
In addition, the Petitioners ask that the Court instead declare them as the successful candidates and duly elected Members of Parliament.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
In the alternative, the Petitioners pray that the elections in respect of their Constituencies be declared absolutely void, and the Court to order fresh elections to be held in each one of them.
\par 
\par Each of the Petitions then sets out the facts upon which the Petitioners relied to invalidate the elections or the returns as declared by the Returning Officer, the First Respondent.
\par 
\par In respect of }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 John Ali}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 , the Petitioner\rquote 
s allegations are detailed at paragraph 12 of the Petition and can be summarised as follows :
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (1) \tab 
That in the Nasinu/Rewa Constituency, there were, in addition to political parties that had endorsed Candidates, 8 other parties without endorsed Candidates for election, but which registered lists of preferences with the Supervisor of El
ections and were included on the ballot paper above the line.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The Petitioner argues that the votes that were cast for these 8 parties and their registered preferences were influential in the final outcome of the result in favour of the Third Respondent.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (2) \tab 
That there was no proper verification of postal ballot papers resulting in unverified postal ballot papers being included in the count which in turn compromised the count and the outcome.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The particulars of these irregularities are set out at paragraph 12(b) of the Petitioner stating :
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93(i)\tab On the 2nd of September 2001 a Postal Ballot Box which was shown to the Petitioner
\rquote s agents, to be completely empty was fully sealed.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (ii)\tab On 5th September 2001 at 4.00 a.m. while counting was in progress a Postal
 Ballot Box was introduced.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 When this Ballot Box was opened it has 424 ballots.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 There was no verification process held for this Ballot Box or the 424 ballots contained in it.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Petitioner or his agents had no opportunity to verify these postal ballots.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (iii)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab A total of 424 unverified postal ballots were introduced into the common bin and countered.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (iv)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab The election was determined on the basis of 424 invalid and/or unverified votes and the Petitioner only lost to the Third Respondent on the final 6th count by 290 votes.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Generally the postal ballots were unfavourable to the Petitioner and the Fiji Labour Party for which party the Petitioner stood.\'94

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (3) \tab 
That over 900 ballot papers marked with a single tick beside the Fiji Labour Party symbol below the 
line were ruled invalid by the Returning Officer and should have been declared valid within the meaning of s.75 and s.116 of the Electoral Act 1998 and the Constitution.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 If they were declared valid, the Petitioner would have won the election comfortably.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (4) \tab 
That Ballot Box Numbered C1350 from Nakaikogo Polling Station (Station No. 150) contained 696 ballot}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 papers,}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 contrary}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 to the}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 529}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 ballot}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 papers}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 indicated}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 in}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 accompanying documents.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
This meant that there were an extra 167 ballot papers in the Box.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In addition the seal of the Box was broken and found inside it.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Objections were made but all 696 ballot papers were included in the count.
\par }\pard \ql \fi3600\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid726681 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (5) \tab That 47 ballot papers were declared invalid and excluded from the count because they }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93did not have on the back the initials of the presiding officer or clerk and the official mark used for the elections in progress.\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 They did however have on the back }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93the official mark used for the elections in progress\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  and should have been declared valid within the meaning of section 75 and section 116 of the Electoral Act 1998.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par In }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Joeli Kalou\rquote s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
 Petition, the Petitioner alleged that there were 8 other Parties without endorsed Candidates for the Cunningham Open Constituency, but which registered lists of preferences with the Supervisor of Elections and included on the ballot paper above the line.
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
As a result votes were cast for these 8 parties and their registered preferences and which adversely affected the Petitioner in the final count.
\par 
\par The Petitioner also claimed that}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  \'93over 1000 votes, which only had a single tick beside the Fiji Labour Party symbol below the line on the ballot papers was declared invalid.\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 These should have been deemed to be valid votes within the meaning of section 75 and section 116 of the Electoral Act 1998 and the Constitution.

\par 
\par The Petitioner further contended that there were no proper verification of postal ballot boxes and as a result unverified postal ballot boxes were included in the count.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In addition, the Petitioner claimed that the handling of the postal ballot papers were irregular and unsatisfactory.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The particulars of allegations of irregularities are set out at paragraph 13(b) of the Petition as follows :
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93(i)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab On the 3rd of September 2001 a Postal Ballot Box without being shown to the Petitioner\rquote s agent to be empty, was sealed.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 However, the slot on the ballot box was unsealed and remained open. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (ii)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab On 6 September 2001 while counting was in progress two Postal Ballot Boxes were introduced.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 When opened one box had 75 ballots and the other had 508 ballots.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
There was no verification held for these Ballot Boxes and the verification of a total of 583 ballot papers was unsatisfactory in that the Application for Postal Vote appeared to be photocopi
ed and/or faded and/or unclear and there was no reasonable possibility of identifying the signatures.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The verification process was conducted in a hurried manner and the Petitioner or his agents had no real opportunity to properly verify these postal ballots.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (iii)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab The Second Ballot Box was introduced had two seal numbers, which were different from the numbers recorded by the Petitioner\rquote s agents.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (iv)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab The ballot papers in the second box did not tally and had 508 ballots instead of 427 according to the accompanying records.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 An election official admitted that there was an error but took no action on it.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (v)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab The ballot papers in the second box were bound together in a bundle by a rubber band rather than loose.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The bundle was large and could not have been put through the slot in the Ballot Box.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (vi)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab A total of 583 improperly verified postal ballots were introduced into the common bin and counted.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (vii)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab The election was determined on the basis of 583 invalid and/or improperly unverified votes.\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Finally in respect of the 3rd Petition, }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Lavenia Kau Padarath}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  the Petitioner, relied on similar grounds to those raised by }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 John Ali}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  and }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Joeli Kalou}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  Petitions, to support her prayer for the Court to invalidate 
\par the result of the election for the Nausori/Naitasiri Open Constituency.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In particular the Petitioner first alleged}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 that over 1,100 ballot papers}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
which were}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 marked with}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 a single
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 tick beside}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
the Fiji Labour Party symbol below the line were illegally declared invalid by the Returning Officer, the First Respondent.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Secondly, the Petitioner contended that 9 Political Parties that did not have endorsed Candidates for election in the constituency, were allowed to register their lists of preferences with the Supervisor of Elections.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
As a result votes were cast for these 9 parties and their registered preferences, which adversely affected the Petitioner and in favour of the subsequent winner the Third Respondent.
\par 
\par Lastly Lavenia Kau Padarath alleged that there were no proper verification of some postal ballot papers resulting in unverified postal ballot papers being included in the count.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The particulars are set out at paragraph 11(a) of the Petition as follows :
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93(i)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab On Tuesday the 4th September, 2001 one Postal Ballot Box was shown to the Petitioner\rquote s agent and sealed.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Petitioner\rquote s agent was informed that it contained 89 postal ballot papers.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The verification of these postal ballot papers was unsatisfactory in that the verification process was not held in the presence of the Petitioner\rquote 
s agent and in non-conformity with the Electoral Act 1998 and the Regulations.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (ii)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab On Wednesday the 5th September 2001 at about 8.00 p.m. while counting was in progress, another Postal Ballot Box was introduced.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 When this Ballot Box was opened it had 511 ballots.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
There was no verification process held for this Ballot Box or for the 511 ballots contained in it.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The Petitioner or his agents had no opportunity to verify these postal ballots.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (iii)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab A total of 600 unverified or improperly verified postal ballots were introduced into the common bin and countered.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (iv)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab The election was determined on the basis of 600 unverified or unsatisfactorily verified votes.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Petitioner lost to the Third Respondent on the final 5th count by 1650 votes.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Generally the postal ballots were unfavourable to the Fiji Labour Party for which the Petitioner stood.\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10953055 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Agreed Facts}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 On 17 December 2001, the Minutes of Agreed Facts and Issues was filed in Court.
\par 
\par The Minutes reflect essentially the factual outlines of the election events and voting figures that pertain in each of the 3 Constituencies that are the subject of these Petitions.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 It also sets out the fact}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 in dispute and legal issues for determination by 
the Court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 These legal issues are the same that is agreed by Counsel to be addressed in the first instance by the Court.
\par 
\par Counsel for the Third Respondents, who had not been a party to the Agreed Facts, argued that he was not necessarily bound by them.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Spe
cifically Counsels had raised an additional legal issue that would tend to go to the root of all the 3 Petitions.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
This refers to the issue of jurisdiction and specifically whether the requirements of the Constitution (s.73 (3)) and the Electoral Act 1998 (ss.144 and 147) had been complied with.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Counsel conceded that s.73 (3) of the Constitution as it relates to the Petitioners\rquote  locus standii and the period of limitation have been met.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 However the requirements of s.144, Counsel contended, has to be satisfied before the Court can proceed to a hearing.
\par 
\par Section 147 of the Act provides :
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93147 }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586 \endash }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (1)\tab Subject to this Act, 
proceedings must not be had on a Petition unless the requirements of section 144 and 145 are complied with.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid535586 {\insrsid535586 (2)\tab }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The Court may at any time after the filing of a petition and on such terms (if any) as it thinks fit, relieve the petitioner wholly or in part from compliance with section 144 (b).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid535586 {\insrsid535586 (3)\tab }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Court must not grant relief under sub-section (2) unless it is satisfied that -
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (a) \tab 
in spite of the failure of a petition to comply with section 144 (b), the petition sufficiently identifies the specific matters on which the petitioner relies; and
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (b) \tab 
the grant of relief would not unreasonably prejudice the interest of another party to the petition.\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Sections 144 sets out the requisites of a petition as follows :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93Requisite of Petition
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\insrsid535586 (144)\tab }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Every petition must -
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10893588 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (a) \tab set out the facts relied on to invalidate the election or return;}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7405745\charrsid535586 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\ls3\ilvl2\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7405745 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
set out those facts with sufficient particularity to identify the specific matter or matters on which the petitioner relies as justifying the grant of relief;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7405745\charrsid535586 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard \s16\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\ls3\ilvl2\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7405745 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 contain a prayer asking for the relief the petitioner claims to be entitled to;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7405745\charrsid535586 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (d)\tab}}\pard \s16\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\ls3\ilvl2\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7405745 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 subject to section 146 (2) be signed by the petitioner; and}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7405745\charrsid535586 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (e)\tab}}\pard \s16\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\ls3\ilvl2\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7405745 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 be filed in the registry of the Court within the period specified in section 74 (3) of the Constitution.\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7405745\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7405745 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Section 145 deals with security for costs.

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Counsel referred to 2 Cases before our own Fiji Court of Disputed Returns as constituted by the present Constitution that have held that the requirements of section 144 constitute a \'93code\'94.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 These requirements, subject to provisions provided in s.147 (2) and (3), are mandatory.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 It constitutes a threshold requirement and failure to comply with them is fatal to the petition (See : }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Cokanauto}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs. }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Sausauwai & Ors}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
. Suva High Court Civil Action No. HBC 0256 of 1999; }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Cavubati}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Nailatikau & Ors}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 ., Suva High Court, Civil Action HBC 304 of 1999).
\par 
\par It is the Counsel for the Third Respondent\rquote s submission that all the 3 Petitions have failed to satisfy the basic requirements of s.144 (a) and (b).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The alleged facts and is
sues relied upon in all the Petitions according to Counsel are devoid of sufficient particulars and details that not only do they offend s.144, but highly prejudicial to the Third Respondent.
\par 
\par I am however satisfied that notwithstanding the apparent deficiencies in some of the factual issues raised in the Petitions, which I shall revert to later, there are adequate details in others to allow the Court to exercise its discretion under s.147 (2).
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 However the relief is not total but only in part.
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10953055 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Issues}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par As conceded by all Counsel, the following are the issues that the 3 Petitions all share and which for convenience,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
the Court will address in the first instance. 
\par  
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 1. \tab Whether the votes cast for parties that did not put up candidates in a particular consti
tuency were valid and therefore correctly included in the count;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 2. \tab 
Whether the ballot papers which had only a single tick beside a party symbol below the line was a valid vote within the meaning of section 116 of the Electoral Act and should have been included in the count; and
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 3. \tab 
Whether there are legal grounds for arguing that the verification process of Postal Ballots under s.106 or verification of ballot paper accounts under s.112 require the presence of the Petitioner or her/his agent.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10953055 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The New Voting System}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7405745 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 A brief background on Fiji\rquote s new voting system would assist in the understanding of the complexity of the issues that are raised in the Petitions.
\par 
\par The country\rquote s voting prior to 1998, was the well-known \'93first-past-the post\'94 system.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Voters wer
e required to vote for candidates by the simple system of marking their ballot papers with a tick.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Whoever obtained the most valid ticks in the election was declared the winner, regardless of whether the absolute majority of votes has been received by the successful candidate.
\par 
\par Following the 1996 Reeves Commission recommendations a new }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93alternate vote\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
 system based on the Australian Federal House of Representatives election system was introduced.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Under this new system, voters are required to express their preferences for candidates by numbering the name of candidates that appear on the ballot papers, in order of their preferences.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The successful candidate is the first to obtain 50 per cent plus 1 of the valid votes cast.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 If no candidate obtains the required majority after the first count or preferences, the candidate that received the least number of votes is excluded, and}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the ballot papers belonging}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
to that candidate i.e. ballot papers}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 that had given first preference to the excluded candidate, are re-distrib
uted to the remaining candidates according to the Voters\rquote  second preferences indicated on the ballot paper.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
This process of exclusions and re-distribution of votes continues until one of the remaining candidates has secured the necessary majority.
\par 
\par A new element supposedly to simply the process of voting was also introduced following the recommendations of the Reeves Commission.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The process familiar in the Australian Senate Federal elections, is what is commonly referred to as \'93above the line\'94 or group system of voting.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 By this method, political parties as well as independent candidates are allowed to file with election officials their recommended order of preferences.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 There was however a significant modification to the Australian system which was introduced to Fiji\rquote s process.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 This was the inclusion into the group of political parties that did not offer candidates in any particular constituency.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 As will be seen from the 3 Petitions, this new element and the question of its legality forms a major part of the Petitioners\rquote  challenge.

\par 
\par The actual ballot paper taking all the modifications on board, is divided into two, separated by a bold line.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The names of the political parties and individuals who have lodged their order of preferences with the Supervisor of Elections, appear on the top half of the ballot, while the individual candidates\rquote  names and their party\rquote s or individual
\rquote s symbols appear on the lower portion of the ballot.
\par 
\par When a voter enters the booth she or he has a choice of personally distributing her or 
his preferences for the individual candidates by individually numbering each of them below the line, or go for the simplified means of voting by placing a tick above the line and thereby adopting a political parties\rquote  or candidates\rquote 
 recommended distribution preferences; thus the \'93above the line\'94 and \'93below the line\'94 voting system.
\par 
\par It is sufficient at this juncture to note that the new alternative voting system recommended by the Reeves Commission was accepted by the Joint Parliamentary Select Committee that was appointed to consider the Commission\rquote 
s report and subsequently entrenched in the Constitution.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Section 54 of the Constitution states :
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93 Voting and Other Matters
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 54-}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7405745 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7405745 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (1)\tab 
The election of a member of each constituency is conducted under the preferential system of voting known as the alternate vote.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid726681 {\insrsid726681 (2)\tab }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid726681 The Parliament may make laws relating to elections for the House of Representatives.\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10953055 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Issue }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7405745\charrsid535586 1}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7405745\charrsid535586 :}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Whether the Votes Cast by Parties, which did not put up candidates}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid726681  }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 in a Constituency ought to have been included in the count.}{
\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid726681 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par All the 3 Petitioners argue that the inclusion of political parties list of order of preferences in constituencies where they do}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
not have candidates offends against the constitutional}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 requirements that}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Members of}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 House of}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Representatives}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 be}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 elected}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 from}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 candidates nominated in a constituency and that the voters vote for actual candidates.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5393068 A }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 voter who ticks next to the symbol of one such party and not for a candidate nominated for that constituency, amounted in fact to a vote for a party not a person.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 This was, in the Petitioners\rquote  submission, unconstitutional.
\par 
\par Furthermore, the Petitioners content, that section 46 and onwards of the Electoral Act 1998 speak only of nomination of individuals.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Such individuals are required to pay deposits.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Under section 59 of the Act, a candidate either for a party or one individual is allocated a symbol registered with the Supervisor of Elections.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 All of these, in the Views of the Petitioners tend to illustrate very clearly that the Fiji system of election is }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93
candidate-based\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  system set up by the Constitution and supported by the Electoral Act.
\par 
\par The Petitioners further submit that the inclusion of parties without candidates is contrary to section 61 of the Electoral Act, as amended.
\par 
\par Previously section 61(1) of the Act had read as follows :
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'9361-(1) A registered political party may, in respect of any constituency }{
\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 in which it has endorsed a candidate}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
 lodge with the Supervisor a list of candidates showing the order of preference in which the registered party would like to see the candidates placed by the voters in that constituency.\'94}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par The amended section 61(1) has deleted the underlined phrase.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Ac
cording to the Petitioners, notwithstanding the amendment, a party is still not at liberty to file its list in a constituency where it does not offer any candidate.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Even the fact that where, as in section 61(5) of the Act, the Supervisor is required to cause the list to be published and affixed to the outside of every polling station, does not, the Petitioners submit, permit the party without a candidate, from submit
ting its list.
\par 
\par In their general submissions all the 3 Petitioners say (p.12 of John Ali\rquote s Petition;}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 p.9 of Joeli Kalou\rquote 
s Petitions; p.9 of Lavenia Kau Padarath\rquote s Petition):
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93With respect to the decision to allow preferences by Parties who had no candidate
 in this constituency by the First and/or Second Respondent has led to certain irrational consequences.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Preference of a political party have been counted thereby affecting the result despite the fact they fielded no candidates.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
It reduces the value of below the line vote and the positions option to those voting below the line and this also leads to certain illogical and unfair consequences.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 We respectfully submit that these ballots should have been excluded from the count.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
We submit that to allow registered political parties to influence the voting in a particular seat without lodging the candidates would do violence to the candidate based system established by the Constitution and the Electoral Act.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 It leaves the room open for mischief and militates against the overall electoral scheme.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
It maybe that the removable (sic: removal) of those words by amendment of Section 61 was intended to have the purpose but we submit that would require a far more substantial amendment (perhaps}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 including}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 amendment of the Constitution).}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The omission of the words in Section 61(1) as mentioned above does not give power to include parties without candidates to be put on the ballot paper.\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Counsel for the Petitioners referred to }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Faiz Mohammed Khan Sherani}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Latchman & Ors.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
 14 FLR 31, as authority for the Court not to depart from the natural meaning and clear words of section 61 (as amended).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
There the Fiji Court of Appeal held (p.32) :
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93Where the language of a statute leads to inconvenience, absurdity, hardship or injustice}{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
presumably not intended by the legislature, a court may, in appropriate circumstances, depart from the natural meanings and grammatic construction, and even clear}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 words may be made to give way to sense.\'94}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par The Petitioners argue that the Court should construe section 61(1) narrowly to coincide with the overall purpose of the Constitution and the Act.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In so doing, the Court will not cause inconvenience hardship or injustice.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
In other words, the interpretation of s.61(1) which allows
 political parties to file their preferences without offering a candidate in any constituency, the Petitioners submit, necessarily militates against the overall purpose of the Constitution and the Electoral Act.
\par 
\par Counsel for the First and Second Respondents submitted that the inclusion of list of preferences of political parties in constituencies they do not themselves offer candidates, was in accordance with section 61 of the Electoral Act 1998 (as amended).}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 It was, in the Counsel\rquote s view, the clear intenti
on of Parliament in enacting the amendment to section 61 of the Act (Act 12 of 1999) to allow and indeed enable political parties to lodge their list of preferences with the Supervisor of Elections for any constituency whether they offered candidates in t
hem or not.
\par 
\par Counsel for the Third Respondents in each of the 3 Petitions supported the First and Second Respondents\rquote  contention that upon the plain meaning of section 61 (as amended) there was no other interpretation to be placed on the section but the fac
t that parties were allowed to lodge preferred list of candidates anywhere.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The deletion of the phrase \'93in which it has endorsed a candidate
\'94 from the old section 61(1)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 was a deliberate act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 of Parliament to give effect}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 to such intentions.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Third Respond
ents in support of this argument, referred to the Objects and Reasons for the Bill for the Amendment, which sets out very clearly that the intention of the amendment was to extend the right to appear above the line on Part II Ballot Papers to parties that
 were not contesting in the Constituency.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The Objects and Reasons also points to the rationale of the amendment stating that the retention of the phrase will tend to inhibit the promotion of vote pooling arrangements between the political parties and in the
 process discourage the formation of multi-party governments.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
In addition the Third Respondents point to the intervention of the then Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka in introducing the Amendment Bill to the House of Representatives on 14 February 1999 (Unc
orrected Hansard), in support of the interpretation of s.61 to be favoured.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 I will refer to this intervention later.
\par 
\par Finally the Counsel for the Third Respondents invited the Court to follow the decision of Gates J in }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Krishna Prasad}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Rupeni Nacewa & Ors}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  HBC 269 of 2001L in which the Court decided that the}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 inclusion of parties}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 which did not field}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 candidates but,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 which lodged a}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 list of preferences}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
on the portion of the ballot paper }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93above the line\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  was authorised by the amendment made to s
ection 61of the Act by the Electoral (Amendment) Act 1999.
\par 
\par There is no doubt that the new Voting System introduced in the 1997 Constitution has meant a very big change to the thinking and behaviour of the Fiji Voter.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Gone was the very simple system of placing a tick besides the name of a candidate.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In its place, a voter is confronted with an \'93either or\'94 proposal.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
While it may at first appear as a simple matter of choosing one or the other, it is not so easy as it seems to an average voter.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
It is true that there have been public education programmes organised by the Supervisor of Elections to teach the voters how to vote.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The fact of the matter is an average Fiji voter is confronted with a split ballot paper with instructions in the English language to eithe
r vote at the top or at the bottom, with different system or style of voting for the top (a tick) from the bottom (applying a number against every candidate but alongside a box bearing the symbol of the party or the individual candidate) and then finally 
finding out that the numbers of boxes below do not correlate to those in the \'93above\'94 portion of the ballot paper.
\par 
\par It is not beyond one\rquote s conjecture that given the varying options and instructions that a voter is confronted with, that it is almost}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
inevitable that mistakes were going to made which have in turn directly resulted in the high percentage of invalid votes cast.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
It is no source of satisfaction to anyone to know that such a high percentage of invalid votes had been recorded for the second successive elections under the new Constitution.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 If anything, it is an indictment of election process and system that by design became convoluted rather than elaborate.
\par 
\par Gates J in the }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Krishna Prasad}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  case also underlined some disquietening aspects (at page 11 of the
 judgment) of the new Voting System and especially what the modification 1999 amendment to section 61 of the Act introduced to the political parties\rquote  role in influencing the voters.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 It is a concern this Court also shares.
\par 
\par A necessary corollary to the exercise of an individual\rquote s right to vote in a democracy, must be her or his right not to vote for a particular candidate.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Such rights to either tick or place a number alongside the name of a}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
candidate is personal t o the voter.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 It seems to me}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 that to allow a}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
political party to make the selection from the list of candidates in order of priority and for the voter merely to place a single tick alongside the symbol of the party and thereby completes one\rquote 
s duty to cast a vote such as it is in an alternate vote system of elections, is tantamount to cession of one\rquote s right to vote and more importantly choose individual candidates.
\par 
\par Be that as it may,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the question before the Court is whether the votes that were cast for parties in constituencies where they had not field
ed candidates should be included in the count.
\par 
\par Counsel for the Respondents argue that the 1999 amendment to s.61 of the Electoral Act was specifically enacted to allow for such eventuality.
\par 
\par The Objects and Reasons for the Bill amending section 61(1) of the Electoral Act and referred to by Gates J at p.11 of his judgment would seem to indicate very precisely the general object and reason which tends to support the Respondents\rquote 
 arguments.
\par 
\par In introducing the Amendment Bill to the House of Representatives oon 14 February, 1999 the then Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka had this to say (Uncorrected Hansard).
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93Hon. Major-General S.L. Rabuka - Sir this Bill is important as part of our preparation
 towards the general elections in May this year.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
These elections will be the first under our new Electoral Act which we passed last year (and is now Act No.18/98), to implement provisions of the new Constitution of the Republic of the Fiji Islands related to elections.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7405745 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In our new electoral system, we have incorporated several interesting new features.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 One of them is the listing of preferences by political parties.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 This arises out of the alternate Vote System which require voters to place candidates in a list of preferences.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Traditionally, political parties have encouraged their supporters to vote in a particular way by placing a tick against their preferred candidate.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 That is no longer}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 correct and}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 voters will}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 now need}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
to place}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 candidates in}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 order of preference}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 by}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 placing}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 numbers}
{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 against}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 names of}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 these}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 candidates.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
This system is being modified in the Fiji Islands in order to simplify the voting procedures and to give political parties an appropriate role in the electoral process.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
What we have included is the above-the-line and below-the-line system which means that voters can either tick a box above the line or place numbers below the line.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Below the line is the list of candidates, above the line are symbols of the political parties to which they belong.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 A tick for the party above the line means the voter is voting for the candidates in the order of preference lodged with the Supervisor of Elections by that party.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 When the votes are counted, a tick for the party above the line is treated as placing candidates in the order listed by that party.\'94

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 After having discussed the then existing section 61 of the Act, the then Prime Minister explained the reason behind the Amendment thus :
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93The Legal Select Committee on Constitutional Consequ
ential Amendments take the view which is shared by Cabinet, that the formation of coalitions and the negotiation of seat sharing arrangements would be inhibited by these limitations as parties may be reluctant to share seats if they cannot be sure how the
ir}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 voters will vote.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The solution is for parties to be able to lodge orders of preference and for their symbols to appear on the ballot paper in every constituency if they so wish.\'94}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid5393068 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par The Counsel for the Third Respondent also invited the Court to take judicial notice of the Reeves Commission\rquote s report in its stated criteria used for evaluating an appropriate voting system for Fiji.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 At paragraph 10.29 of the Report it states :
\par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'9310.29 The consistent theme of this report, developed in Chapters 2 and 3 and sustained}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 throughout,}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
is that the}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 encouragement of}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 multi-ethnic}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 government should be the}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 overriding}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
objective of}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 constitutional}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 arrangements for}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the Fiji Islands.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 It must therefore appear at the head of the list of criteria.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Voting System must be one that promotes the emergence of multi-ethnic governments.\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Again at paragraphs 10.53 and 10.54 the Commission added :
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'9310.53 We evaluate the ability of the AV System to promote the goal}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 of multi-ethnic government by looking at the extent it encourages cooperatio
n amongst parties based in different communities, or support for a multi-ethnic party, through vote pooling.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
We therefore look at whether voters will have both the opportunity and incentives to vote for some candidates not of their own ethnicity.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 10.54 Obviously the best method of inducing vote-pooling is to avoid inter-ethnic competition.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 A multi-ethnic of pre-election coalition can put up a multi-ethnic slate of candidates.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Ethnic parties based in different communities can agree not to contest a particul
ar seat in a constituency where one community is outnumbered, in return for a corresponding favour in another constituency where the same community predominates.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Such arrangements are more likely to be made between moderate parties than between those with extreme policies.\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par It seems clear from one\rquote s reading and understanding of the Objects and Reasons of the Amendment Bill of 1999 amending S.61 of the Act together with excerpts from the Hansard on the debate in Parliament in the introduction of the Bill, t
hat there can be no other interpretation put on the amendment then the plain meaning of one\rquote s reading of the section.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The Reeves Commission\rquote s criteria}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 analysis of the}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 intention}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 and general}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 objective of}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the A.V. System, gives}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 weight to the argument advanced
 by the Respondents in that not only should the section be given its plain and ordinary meaning, but in so doing the Court would be acting in accordance with the Constitution and its objects and spirit.
\par 
\par I am persuaded by Gates J\rquote s conclusion in the }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Krishnan Case,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
 notwithstanding the views this Court may express on the Fiji\rquote s new Voting System and its efficacy, that other jurisdictions that have similar electoral laws have upheld the election procedure as validly giving the voters the same right to vo
te and choose albeit in the case of latter a somewhat indirect one.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Gates J also usefully referred to the Australian decision }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 McKenzie}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Commonwealth of Australia & Ors.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  (1985) 59 ALJR 190 where a similar provision to our section 61 came under scrutiny.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 There the plaintiff submitted firstly, as is the case of the Petitioners in the present proceedings that the electors who used the voting }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'94above-the-line\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  were in fact voting for the parties and not for the candidates contravened}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 S.16 of the Constitution which provided for the qualification of a senator.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Secondly, the plaintiff argued, the provision disseminated against individuals who were not members of any political party.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Gibbs C J found in respect of the first that it was not right to say that the Constitution forbid the use of such a system.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 No indication of its prohibition is contained anywhere in the Constitution.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
As to the second, the learned Chief Justice said :
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93
In my opinion, it cannot be said that any disadvantage caused by the sections of the Act now in question to candidates who are not members of the parties or groups so offend democratic principles as to render the sections beyond the power of the Parliamen
t to enact.\'94}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (P.191)
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Earlier the Court in the }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 McKenzie Case}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  had referred to Stephen J\rquote s judgment in }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Attorney-General}{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (Cth);}{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Ex}{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 rel.}{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 McKinlay}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 vs. }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Commonwealth}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  (1975) 135 CLR 1 who at pp.57 - 58 stated that }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93It is not for this Court to intervene so lon
g as what is enacted is consistent with the existence of representative democracy as the chosen mode of government and is within the power conferred by S.51 (xxxvi) of the Constitution.\'94}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par I have no doubt that there can only be one way to interpret S.61(1) of the Electoral Act if it is to accord with S.71 of the Constitution.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
It is that the section 61(1) allows political parties to lodge with the Supervisor of Election their list of candidates in constituencies where they are themselves not represented by candidates.
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7405745 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Accordingly, I rule that the votes cast by parties that did not put up candidates in a constituency are valid.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 These parts of the 3 Petitions are hereby dismissed.
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10953055 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Issue No. }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7405745\charrsid535586 2:}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Whether the ballot}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 papers which}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 had only a single tick beside a}{
\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10953055  }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 party symbol below the line was a valid vote within the meaning}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10953055  }{
\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 of the Electoral Act and should have been included in the Count}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par All the 3 Petitioners submit that a single tick below the line should have been treated as a valid vote within the meaning of sections 75 and 116 of the Electoral Act, and in particular section 116(3)(d).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Briefly section 75 instructs the voter what to do if she or he is handed a Part I ballot paper (below the line), or Part II (above the line).
\par 
\par Section 116 represents the law makers attempt to save votes that would have otherwise being declared invalid, except that the intentions of the voters seem very clear from looking at the ballot paper.
\par 
\par Section 116(2)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 sets out four (4) scenarios that are most likely to result from the exercise of one\rquote 
s vote under Part I ballot paper and what the Returning Officer\rquote s decision should be in each of them.
\par }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\trowd \irow0\irowband0\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid15405508\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 Scenario 1}{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 (S.116(2)(a))\cell A voter indicates first preference and continues thereafter excepting the last block against a candidate which the voter leaves blank.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 \trowd \irow0\irowband0\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid15405508\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 \cell }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 Decision}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588  :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 A valid vote. It should be assumed that the voter intended the unmarked candidate\rquote s block to be her or his last preference.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 \trowd \irow1\irowband1\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid15405508\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 Scenario 2}{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 (S.116(2)(b))\cell There are only 2 candidates and the voter indicates first preference for one but leaves the second blank or put a number other than 2 against the second candidate.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 \trowd \irow2\irowband2\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid15405508\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 \cell }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 Decision}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588  :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 A valid vote. It should be assumed that the voter has clearly indicated her or his preference.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 \trowd \irow3\irowband3\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid15405508\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 Scenario 3}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 (S.116(2)(c))\cell There are 3 candidates and the voter indicates first and second preferences, but leaves the third blank.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 \trowd \irow4\irowband4\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid15405508\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 \cell }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 Decision}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588  :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644\charrsid10893588 It is a valid vote for the same reason as Scenario 2.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3701644 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid10893588 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 \trowd \irow5\irowband5\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid15405508\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid10893588 Scenario 4}{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid10893588 (S.116(2)(d)\cell 
There are 4 or more candidates and the voter has indicated her or his preference in order, with no repetition of numbers, but has left unmarked up to 25 per cent of the squares opposite the names of candidates.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid10893588 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 \trowd \irow6\irowband6\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid15405508\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 \cell }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid10893588 Decision}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid10893588  :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid10893588 A valid vote. The voter\rquote s preference is clearly indicated from number 1 through to 75 per cent of the list.\cell }\pard\plain 
\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10893588\charrsid10893588 \trowd \irow7\irowband7\lastrow 
\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Section 116(3) deals with Part II ballot paper and again usefully illustrated with the following scenarios:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid16001049\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 Scenario 1}{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 (S.116(3)(a)\cell A voter places numbers opposite individual candidates and Part I is not infringed.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \trowd \irow0\irowband0\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid16001049\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \cell }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 Decision}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376  :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 A valid vote.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \trowd \irow1\irowband1\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid16001049\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 Scenario 2}{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 (S.116(3)(b)\cell Under Scenario 1 the ballot paper is invalid but the voter has in addition, ticked a box above the line (representing 
political parties and independents which/who had already lodged list of preferences).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \trowd \irow2\irowband2\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid16001049\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \cell }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 Decision}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376  :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 A valid vote. The order of preference of the box above the line applies.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \trowd \irow3\irowband3\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid16001049\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 Scenario 3}{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 (S.116(3)(c))\cell The ballot paper is deemed valid under Part I bu
t in addition, the voter has gone ahead and placed a tick or ticks opposite one or more political parties or individuals above the line.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \trowd \irow4\irowband4\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid16001049\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \cell }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 Decision}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376  :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 A valid vote (under Part I)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270 
\par }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \trowd \irow5\irowband5\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid16001049\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 Scenario 4}{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 (S.116(3)(d))\cell A voter does not place any numbers opposite the candidates\rquote  names, but nevertheless places a tick in a box above the line.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \trowd \irow6\irowband6\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid16001049\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \cell }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 Decision}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376  :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 A valid vote. The list of preferences lodged by the political party or individual applies.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \trowd \irow7\irowband7\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid16001049\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 Scenario 5}{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 (S.116(7)(e))\cell A voter does not vote below the line, but ticks more than 1 box above the line.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 \cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \trowd \irow8\irowband8\ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748
\row }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid16001049\yts18 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \cell }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 Decision}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376  :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752270\charrsid6373376 An invalid vote.\cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6373376\charrsid6373376 \trowd \irow9\irowband9\lastrow \ts18\trgaph108\trleft720\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrv
\brdrs\brdrw10 \trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trftsWidthA3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind828\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl
\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth1980\clshdrawnil \cellx2700\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \clbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 
\cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth6048\clshdrawnil \cellx8748\row }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Finally section 116(4) clarifies that any repetition of a number, whether they be in sequence or consecutive, will be disregarded and these including those that follow will be deemed invalid.
\par 
\par The issue for this Court to decide is whether the tick placed opposite a candidate\rquote s name to the exclusion of others that is leaving}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
blank the blocks opposite all}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the other candidates, falls within one of 
the scenarios envisaged under Section 116(3) and consequently be considered valid.
\par 
\par The Petitioners in their submissions all argued that a ballot paper with a tick beside a candidate\rquote s name and party symbol below the line is a valid vote and should have been counted in accordance with the party\rquote 
s preferences lodged with the Supervisor of Election as required under Section 61.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 They added that }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5393068 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93
The Electoral Act recognises that there are voters who are illiterate and makes provision for votes to be valid when the intention is clear.\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In their view, }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93nothing is clearer than a single tick against the symbol of the symbol of the FLP and/or the Petitioners
\rquote  names even when the vote is below the line.\'94}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid5393068 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Counsel for the Petitioners}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
expounded in details the law relating to the rules of interpretation and what this Court ought to follow in interpreting the so-called single tick below the line and Section 116(3)(d).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Amalgamated}{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Society}{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 of}{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Engineers}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 vs}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Adelaide}{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Steamship}{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Co. Ltd}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 . (1920-21) 28 CLR 159, Higgins J said (at pp.161-162) :
\par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93
The fundamental rule of interpretation, to which all others are subordinate, is that a statute is to be expounded according to the intent of the Parliament that made it; and that intention has to be foun
d by an examination of the language used in the statute as a whole.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The question is, what does the language mean; and where we find what the language means, in its ordinary and natural sense, it is our duty to obey that meaning, even if we think that the result to be inconvenient or impolitic or improbable.\'94}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid5393068 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid406912 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid406912\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Counsel for the Petitioners contended that Section 116(3)(d) should be interpreted liberally and }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93in a way that gives it meaning and in accordance with the intent of Parliament\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 As to the intent of Pa
rliament, Counsel referred to the debate in Parliament on 25 March 1998, when the Electoral Bill was being introduced by the then Prime Minister, Major-General Sitiveni Rabuka.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 On Section 116, he had this to say, (Uncorrected Hansard P.1938) :
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93Mr Speaker
, Sir, the question of whether a ballot paper is valid or invalid is, of course, of great importance and also attracted much of our attention on Monday afternoon, especially when a new system}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 of alternate voting and above or below the line voting is being used for the first time.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The principles in Clause 116 of the Bill follows established rules in countries where the alternate vote system are currently being system (sic: used).}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 There is an overriding principle that so far as possible, a ballot paper will 
be treated as valid but I would encourage members of the public to familiarise themselves with the correct method of making ballot papers so that a few papers as possible will be rejected.\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par The Petitioners also referred to American cases of }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Reynolds}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Sims}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  377. US 554 and }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Westbury}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  v}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Sanders}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
 376 US1, 84 SCT 536 to illustrate how the Courts view the importance, of ensuring that the exercise of the individual\rquote s right to vote is not unduly restricted by impreciseness of legislation.
\par 
\par In summary the Petitioners\rquote  argument is that the single tick against their names and the FLP symbol below the line, should be construed as if the tick is above the line against the FLP symbol.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In other words, Section 116(3)(d) should be read and interprete
d as allowing a voter who has placed a single tick below the line and therefore fails to be saved by one of the 4 scenarios in Part I ballot paper, to have her or his vote treated as belonging to the class of votes under which Section 116(3)(b)(ii) applie
s.
\par 
\par There is support for this view in our own Court of Disputed Returns decision of Gates J on 8 February 2002 in the }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Krishna Prasad}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  Case.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Court in that case first compared the simplicity in which S.116(3)(e)}
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 is drafted to the more convoluted}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 S.116(3)(b)(ii).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
By so doing the Part II ballot paper becomes almost unnecessarily intermingled with Part I ballot paper which is enough to cause confusion if not to the officials then certainly the voters of the country.
\par 
\par Gates J in }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Krishna Prasad}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  Case took the view that section 116 is mandatory and states as follows (p.24):}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid406912\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93
I have approached this interpretation on the basis of the Act being a code, and I interpret section 116 to be mandatory rather than directory.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 I have arrived at a decision that the ballot pape
rs marked with a simple tick below the line should not have been discounted as invalid, by looking solely at the mandatory instructions of the Electoral Act 1998".
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Gates J then referred to the decision of Rooney J in }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Rakha}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Returning Officer}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  (Lautok
a Indian Constituency) Civil Action No. 289 of 1985, where the Court, with assistance of English authorities per Lord Denning MR in }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Rutle}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Rodgers}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  (1982) 3 WLR 143 and our own FCA in }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Maan Singh}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Town Clerk of Suva & Or}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 . (Unreported) Fiji Court of Appeal Civil App. No. 23 of 1984 per Speight VR, emphasised the need to exercise vigilance to protect the voter\rquote 
s right in circumstances where the intention is clear but for minor technical infringements of the voting instructions.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Finally the Court cited various US authorities (}{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Greidlinger}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Davis}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  9887 Fed 2nd 1344 (4th Cir. 1993); }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Reynolds}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Sims}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  377 US 544; and }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Wesberry}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Sanders}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  376 US1 84 SCT 526) in support of the right in a democratic society to have and enjoy the freedom to choose those that govern.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 This right of suffrage is unfretted and cannot be denied or impeded when the voter\rquote s intention is clear, by mere technical error.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Court at the end decided that the ballot papers marked with a single tick below the line should not have been declared informal.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Instead the 1278 votes falling into this category were to be counted in accordance with the preferences lodged by the Petitioner\rquote s party }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (\'93above the line\'94).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par 
\par While I have followed very carefully the Court\rquote s arguments and reasoning in the }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Krishna Prasad}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
 Case, I regretfully and respectfully have to differ from its conclusion and ultimate finding.
\par 
\par The concept of preferential system of voting or alternative vote as entrenched under section 54 of the Constitution}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 envisaged a}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 very elaborate}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 and deliberate 
system of voting.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 There is a detailed legislature framework for such alternative vote as contained in sections 75 and 116 of the Electoral Act.
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 These sections certainly provide the}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  \'93code\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  under which the Fiji voter was to be adjudged.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The comprehensiveness of the scheme strongly suggests that these provisions, as Gates J found in Krishna Prasad\rquote s Case, are mandatory.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
There can be no room for manouvering even to the extent of applying the common law approach that would give a directory interpretation as to the manner and style of voting.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 For example, the common law rule as recognised in }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Woodward}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs 
}{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Sarsons}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
 LR 10 CP 733 would have allowed incorrectly marked ballot papers to be treated as valid so long as the intentions of the voter to vote for a}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
particular candidate is clear.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Should}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the single tick below the line be construed in the same way?}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
To do so strikes at the very heart of the election system and voting method that had been crafted and designed for the country and introduced under the new Constitution.
\par 
\par Having held that sections 75 and 116 are mandatory, there cannot surely be any possibility of entertaining the common law approach of attempting to interpret voter intention.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The whole voting scheme would fall apart if such an approach were to be favoured.
\par 
\par The learned Counsel for the 3rd Respondents has referred the Court to the Supreme Court of New South Wales case of }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 McBride}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
 vs }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Graham}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  (1991) (unreported) which Gates J also referred to in judgment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 There the Court also sitting as a Court of Disputed Returns had to rule on a similar situation.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The New South Wales ballot papers were also in Part I and Part II Ballot Papers, with the voter being required to number the paper.
\par 
\par The Petitioner in }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 McBride}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
 Case submitted that ticks on a ballot paper used for an alternative vote election, should be treated as valid.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The Court per Slatery A J said (at p.64):
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93I reject the petitioner\rquote s submissions that the use of ticks and crosses on a b
allot paper is a valid way}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 to record a valid first vote for a candidate.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid406912 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
A matter which has always been at the forefront of the issues of the petition of Mr McBride and which has been averted to, is whether the current statutory provision as to the manner in which a voter is to mark a ballot paper is mandatory or directory.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Mr Hely submitted that the statutory requirement to record a vote in the manner directed was mandatory.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid406912 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 On my construction of the Act, marks, e.g. an oblique stroke or other symbols an
d a tick or a cross are not valid ways of casting a vote for the election of a member of the Legislative Assembly.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
My opinion that the requirements of the Act regarding a vote are mandatory and not directory confirms this construction.\'94}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Further on (at pp.65,66) Slattery A J observed as follows:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93
Decisions of courts in countries outside Australia e.g. New Zealand and England, as to whether provisions about the manner of voting are mandatory or directory differ from Australian decisions.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Without examining the authorities here it could be said that this is due to different Legislation.\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Finally the Court made the following proposition:
\par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93
Whether a statutory provisions about the manner in which a voter marks a ballot paper is mandatory or directory requires a consideration of the subject matter of the relevant statutory provisions, their amendments and general object of the Act.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid406912 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The nature and extent of the relevant sections and amendments regarding the manner of voting have been traced at some length elsewhere in this judgment.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid406912 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
On an examination of the scheme of the Act and its language, I am satisfied that the provisions as to the manner in which a voter is to record a vote is mandatory.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The }{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Act directs that the only way a voter is to show a first preference is by marking a ballot paper with the number 
\'931".}{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 If it is not so marked it is informal and should be rejected at the scrutiny.\'94}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (emphasis added)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid406912 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Clearly, the decision is }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 McBride}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  is relevant and persuasive to the 3 Petitions before this Court.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The New South Wales Court of Disputed Return distinguished the English and New Zealand authorities on the simple basis that the legislative provisions in these countries were different:
\par 
\par The same is certainly the case for Fiji.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 No longer do we have the fir
st past the post system of voting and for which the common law rule providing directory interpretation on the manner of voting apply.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
In its place, we have an alternative vote system build around a detailed \'93code\'94 to be found in sections 75 and 116 of the Electoral Act.
\par 
\par This Court is further persuaded by the argument for the exclusion of the common law }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93intention\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
 rule in favour of the mandatory interpretations by the changes to the earlier Electoral Regulations.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Regulation 55(2) of the Electoral Regulations made under the Electoral Act 1971 provided:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12137537 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12137537 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93(2) \tab Notwithstanding anything contained in regulation 34, }{
\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 if a returning officer is satisfied that the intention of a voter is clear beyond reasonable doubt}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
, he may at his discretion accept and count as valid the ballot paper of such voter, and the decision of the returning officer shall be final.\'94}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (emphasis added)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12137537 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The new equivalent, Regulation 81 of the Electoral (Conduct of Elections) Regulations 1992 states:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid406912 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93(2)\tab Any vote which is marked -
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid406912 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (a) elsewhere than in the proper place;}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid406912 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid406912\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid406912 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (b) otherwise by means of a tick; or}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid406912 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid406912\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid406912 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (c) by more than a mark}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid406912 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid406912\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 shall not for such reason be deemed to be invalid or uncertain }{
\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 if, the returning officer is satisfied that the intention that the vote be one}{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 or}{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 other}{
\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 of the candidates}{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 clearly}{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 appears beyond reasonable doubt}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 , and the way that the ballot paper is marked does not of itself identify the voter and it is not shown that he can be identified by it\'94.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (emphasis added)
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par The difference is the wording of the 1971 Regulation 55 to Regulation 81 of 1992, is a reflection of the changes that have been made to Fiji\rquote s system of voting.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The previously existing discretionary powers of the returning officer to include questionable ballot papers on the basis of perceived intentions, has been in the Court\rquote 
s view, taken away by the combined effects of Regulation 81 and section 116.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
At the end, it cannot but leave no doubt whatsoever that it was Parliament\rquote s intention to exclude the common law rule from the new system of voting.
\par 
\par The issue of voter intention has extensively been canvassed by Counsel in their submissions. Under normal circumstances, the intention of the voters can only be ascertained from the face of the ballot paper itself.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
It is true, as the learned Counsel for the Petitioners argued, that in the Fiji context there would obviously be voters who are illiterate, and in section 116 Parliament gave due recognition to it.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The question surely is, should the returning officer, t
reat for example, all the single ticks below the line as authored by illiterate voters and attempt as best as one can to deduce intentions.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
What about the voters who do so deliberately not only to cast invalid votes but to protest at the new electoral system?}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
After all, they could not very well stay away since they are required by law to vote.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The danger therefore is, by treating favourably the single tick below the line, the Court is drawn to a delicate situation of possibly treating such ballot paper against the intention of the voter.
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid406912 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Bush}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Gore}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  531 US (2000) the United States Supreme Court was co
nfronted with the similar problem of ascertaining the intention of the voter, although the Florida State ballot papers were in fact ballot cards designed to be perforated by a stylus.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Either through error or omission some cards had not been perforated with sufficient precision and against candidates names, for the machine to count them.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Instances where a piece of card (}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93a chad\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  as it became famously known) were left hanging, and only indentation of sorts instead of separation, were numerous.
\par 
\par The US Supreme Court (majority decision) having found that the recount mechanisms of the State }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93
do not satisfy the minimum requirement for non-arbitrary treatment of voters necessary to secure the fundamental right\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  added (p.5):
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93The law does not refrain from searching
 for the intent of the actor in a multitude of circumstances; and in some cases the general command to ascertain intent is not susceptible to much further refinement.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In this instance, however, the question is not whether to believe a witness but how to interpret the marks or holes or scratches on an inanimate object, a piece of cardboard or paper which,
}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 it}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 is}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 said, might}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 not}
{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 have registered}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 a vote}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 during the machine count.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The fact finder confronts a thing, not a person.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The search for intent can be confined by specific rules designed to ensure uniform treatment.\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par On further observing that in following a general statutory rule, standards for accepting or rejecting }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93contested ballots\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  is bound to vary from one county to another, the }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Court conceded that only
 the legislature can make rules about finding out the intention of the voter}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
But, it added that such rules should be capable of uniform application to protect the voting rights of its citizenry.
\par 
\par It could very well be that the wordings of S.116 may require refinement, but there is no doubt as to its purpose and object.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The section lays down specific standards that can be strictly and uniformally applied without breaching the right of an individual to vote.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
This Court would be reluctant to even begin to contemplate intruding into the role of the legislature in re-defining the shape and form of Fiji\rquote s electoral laws.
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid406912 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Finally in respect of this issue, Counsel have referred to the recent decision of the Supreme Court in}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Prem Singh}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Krishna Prasad}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 CBV00001/2002S, where}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the Court}
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 unanimously}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 rejected}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Gates J\rquote s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
interpretation of S.116(3).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 On its application to S.75 the Court (majority decision) stated: (pp.16-17)
\par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93Section 75(2)(b) is subject to S.116(3), but only in a limited way.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
In general, to cast a valid vote a voter must not state both a numerical order of preference and place a tick opposite the name of a registered political party or independent candidate; but S.116(3) provides a limited dispensation.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Nothing in S.75 however enables S.116(3) to authorise a departure from the requirement that }{
\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 a tick, to be valid, must be placed in one of the boxes which appear at the top of the ballot paper}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 .
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The names of the registered political parties appear only to the top half of the ballot paper.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Even without recourse to S.75(2)(b), there would be a strong argument that S.116(3)(b)(ii) applied only to the top half of the ballot paper.}{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 But when S.75(2)(b) is taken into account, the argument becomes conclusive.}{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 No other interpretation is possible.\'94}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (emphasis added)}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par The Rt. Hon. Dame Sian Elias, delivering her minority judgment agreed that there can be no other interpretation to S.116(3)(d) than as prescribed to it by reference back to S.116(3)(b)(ii).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In her view the Court of Disputed Return was clearly in error on the interpretation and added (p.18).
\par }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93The error was material.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The declaration the Court made as to the result of the election was based upon it.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The error was also substantive.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
It was not a consequential or collateral question of law.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 It was integral to the function exercised by the Court of Disputed Returns.}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The error of law meant that the judge asked himself the wrong question in carrying out his responsibilities, with disfranchising effect for those whose valid votes counted equally with invalid votes.\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid406912 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Counsel for the Petitioners submit that the views of the Supreme Court on Gates J\rquote 
s judgment is obiter as indeed the majority of the Court acknowledged, and this Court should not consider it as binding in its present deliberations.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 I am however mindful of the provisions of the Constitution that tend to suggest otherwise.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Specifically section 122(4) states:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid406912 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93(4)\tab 
Decisions of the Supreme Court are, subject to sub section (5), binding on the Courts of the state.\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Sub-section 5 merely allows the Supreme Court to review its own judgment, pronouncement or order.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 It would seem to me that while the utterances of the Supreme Court on the issues before this Court, were deemed}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 obiter dicta,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the issues are grave}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 matters of state}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 that affect the
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 very fundamental and human rights of Fiji\rquote s citizens, that this Court or any other for that matter, would be unwise not to follow.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 At the very least the Supreme Court\rquote s views are powerfully persuasive.
\par 
\par In the ultimate, I find the issue 2 whether the single tick below the line ought to be included as valid vote, in the negative.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
These parts of the Petitions are therefore dismissed.
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid406912 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Issue 3 :\tab }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Whether there are legal grounds for arguing that the verification}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid406912  }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 process of the Postal Ballots under s.106 or of ballot paper accounts}
{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid406912  }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 under s.112 require the presence of the Petitioner or her/his agent}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 .

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11891176 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Process of Verification}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par I now turn to the verification of the ballot papers and the 3 Petitioners\rquote  allegations of procedural anomalies, the details of which are set out above.
\par 
\par There are two processes of verification under the Electoral Act 1998.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 There is firstly the verification of postal}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 ballot papers}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
required under section 106}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 of the Act.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The second}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 is the}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 verification of ordinary}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 ballot}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 papers, referred to as }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93verification of ballot paper accounts\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 , and governed by section 112.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Lavenia Kau Padarath\rquote s petition}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 alleges}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 unverified}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 and/or}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 improperly verified}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 postal}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 ballot papers that were included in the Count.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Some 89 postal ballot papers on Tuesday 4th September 2001 and an additional 511 from a postal ballot box brought in the next day 5th September, were all included into the common bin and counted.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Petitioner alleged that these 600 postal ballot papers were not verified in accordance with the requirements of s.106 of the Electoral Act.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Petitioner contended that contrary to the requirement of the Act, neither she nor any of her agents were present at the time the envelopes containing the postal ballot 
papers were opened by the returning officer.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
While the Petitioner does not specify the provisions of the Act she is relying upon the Court can only assume that her submission is based on alleged non-compliance with section 106 of the Act.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 I shall refer to the other process later.
\par 
\par Under s.106 (1) the returning officer is required to prominently display a notice in writing of}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93
the day time and place at which postal ballots will be verified.\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
In addition sub-sections 2 and 3 states:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93106-(2) After the close
 of the poll in a constituency, on the day and at the time and place referred to in sub-section (1), the returning officer must produce unopened all envelopes containing postal ballot papers received before the polling day, or if the writ specifies dates 
between which the poll is to be held, the last polling day for the election in the constituency to which the postal ballots relate, }{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
and those envelopes must be opened in the presence of the candidates or their counting agents (if any) if they wish to be present.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'94}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  
}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93(3)\tab 
The following persons and no others may be present at the verification of postal ballot papers }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12802115 \endash }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12802115\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (a) \tab the returning officer for the constituency and his or her clerks;}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12802115\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\insrsid5393068 (b)\tab }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid5393068 the assistant returning officers;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\insrsid12802115\charrsid5393068 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\insrsid5393068 (c )\tab }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid5393068 the candidates}{\insrsid12802115\charrsid5393068 ;}{\insrsid8023293\charrsid5393068 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\insrsid12802115\charrsid5393068 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\insrsid5393068 (d)\tab }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid5393068 one counting agent of each candidate;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\insrsid12802115\charrsid5393068 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\insrsid5393068 (e)\tab }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid5393068 members of the Commission;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\insrsid12802115\charrsid5393068 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\insrsid5393068 (f)\tab }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid5393068 the Supervisor; and
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\insrsid12802115\charrsid5393068 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid5393068 {\insrsid5393068 (g)\tab }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid5393068 any persons with the written permission of the Supervisor\'94 
\par (emphasis added)
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1596966 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid5393068 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 These provisions taken together clearly establishes, in the Court\rquote s view, that
 the presence of either the candidate or one of the agents, at and during the verification of the postal ballots, was not obligatory.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The legislature, with the use of the word \'93may\'94, in s.106(3), can only be presumed to intend that the process be permissive not mandatory.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
It would seem to me that the whole object of the Scheme of verification of postal ballots envisaged under s.106 is not only to ensure that each ballot paper is valid, which the returning officer is required to independently evaluate and de
cide, but that such process must be expeditiously carried out and in so doing contribute to the efficient counting of the ballot papers.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
That is possibly why under s.107 of the Act, the decision of the returning officer is made final.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par 
\par In the Court\rquote s view, so long as the returning officer has fulfilled her or his duties required under s.106 then the verification of postal ballots may legally proceed with or without the presence of a candidate or her or his agent.
\par 
\par But even if the allegation by the Petition
er of verification procedural anomalies refer to s.112 requirements, the Court is of the view that the construction of s.111 (who may be present at the count) must be given the same permissive interpretation held in respect of s.106.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par 
\par Furthermore, the Court is convinced that the verification of ballot paper accounts required under s.112 do not apply to postal ballot boxes.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The section refers only to }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93the ballot boxes and packets received from each polling station\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  and no other.
\par 
\par While there may be specific facts that the Petitioner will allege that supports her submissions on irregularity of verification process, there is no particular claim that these ballot papers were invalid or}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 included}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 informal}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 votes; only}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 that}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 candidate or her agent}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 was absent}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 from}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 process.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12802115\charrsid535586 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Cole}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Lacey}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
 [1964] 112 CLR 45, the High Court of Australia sitting as the Court of Disputed Return was confronted with a similar situation.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
There the Petitioner alleged that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1596966 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1596966 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93No complete scrutiny of the vo
tes was conducted by or on behalf of the candidates and your Petitioner says that on such a complete scrutiny, a greater number of ballot papers would be rejected as informal.\'94}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Taylor J delivering the judgment stated: (p.49):
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93
I confess to some difficulty in appreciating the precise meaning or relevance of the first part of this paragraph but I take it to acknowledge that scrutineers appointed by the respective candidates exercised their rights under Pt XIV of the Act to some u
nspecified extent but either that they were not present during the whole period of the counting or that in some other manner they failed to exercise their rights to the fullest extent.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 To what extent this occurred is, however, left to speculation.}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
But there is no suggestions in the Petition that any scrutineer objected to any ballot papers or class of ballot papers nor is there any direct allegations that any informal votes or classes of informal votes were admitted.\'94
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 There}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 is}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 in addition, considerable lega
l authorities sufficiently summarised in Ambrose J\rquote s judgment in }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Gary Bernard Fenlon}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs. }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Ted Radke & Electoral Commissioner of Queensland}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  [1995] 
\par QSR 292 to support the proposition that the Courts all over are reluctant to declare formal votes informal through disregard of some statutory requirements by election officials.
\par 
\par In my view, upon the proper construction of the Electoral Act and specifically the verification provisions of sections 106 and section 112, the facts alleged by the Petitioner cannot at 
law amount to a breach of duties on the part of the returning officer.
\par 
\par I turn next to }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Joeli Kalou\rquote s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  petition on the same issue of verification anomaly allegation.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Again as in the }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Lavenia Padarath\rquote s}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  Petition, the }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93irregular and unsatisfactory\'94 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
verification process is with regards to the postal ballots.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The particulars are set out above but essentially the allegation relates to two (2) postal ballot boxes which were brought in on 6 September 2001, one containing 75 ballot papers the other 508.
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12802115 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Petitioner, Joeli Kalou, contended that :
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93
There was no verification process held for these Ballot Boxes and the verification of a total of 583 ballot papers was unsatisfactory in that the Application for Postal Vote appeared to be photocopies and/or 
faded and/or unclear and there was no reasonable possibility of identifying the signatures.\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par The law applicable to verification of postal ballots under s.106 and ballot paper verification accounts under s.112 has already been fully explored in the }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Lavenia Padarath}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  petition.
\par 
\par It is sufficient to reiterate that while sections 106 and 112 recognise the right of a candidate or her or his agent to be present at the verification process, absence of either from its conduct, will not of itself make the action of 
the returning officer unlawful nor will it constitute a breach of the requirements of the Act.
\par 
\par Insofar as the allegations of irregularity of the verification of postal ballots and ballot papers accounts contained in }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Joeli Kalou\rquote s}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  petition are based on the same alleged factual situations as those in }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Lavenia Padarath\rquote s}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  petition, this Court is drawn to the same conclusion as in the latter.
\par 
\par There are however additional and specific alleged}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 facts contained}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 in paragraphs 13 (b) (iii), (iv), (v) of Joeli Kalou\rquote s Petition.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
But the alleged facts are not clear and enough for the Court to determine whether they represented sufficient grounds to constitute breaches of any legal requirement under the Act.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 At worst they, in the Court\rquote s view, constitute mere procedural irregularity by the returning officer.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 At any rate the insufficient particulars of these allegations, would certainly fail the requirements of section 144 (a) of the Act.
\par 
\par Finally I deal with John Ali\rquote s petition on verification.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The particulars relate to po
stal ballot papers and are specified in paragraph 12 (b) (i) and (ii) of the Petition.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 As to 12 (b) (i), the claim that a postal ballot box 
\'93shown to the Petitioner\rquote s agent to be complety empty was fully sealed\'94 is unclear.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 It lacks any details that would 
tend to show that the action was illegal or in breach of the law.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12802115 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 This is quite apart from the seemingly contradictory nature of the statement.
\par 
\par The Petitioner further alleges that on 5 September, a Postal Ballot Box was introduced and opened.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 It contained 424 ballots.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Petition stated that \'93The Petitioner or his agents had no opportunity to verify these ballot papers;\'94
 hence his submission of non-verification.
\par 
\par As has been fully explored and decided in the Court\rquote s deliberation in the other t
wo Petitions, the absence of a Candidate or her/his agent does not provide any legal impediment to prevent the Returning Officer from proceeding with the verification process.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The fact that the Petitioner or agent was not present at the process cannot operate to invalidate the process nor the very ballots in question.
\par 
\par For the same reason as in the others, this submission is rejected.
\par 
\par In summary, therefore in respect of the legal issues posed by the 3 petitions, the Court decides as follows :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12802115\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 1. \tab On Wheth
er the Votes given above the line in respect of the Parties which did not put up candidates in the Constituency but appeared on the Ballot Paper, were valid and ought to have been counted.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Court finds the ballot papers valid and were properly included in the count.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1596966 {\insrsid1596966 2.\tab }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid1596966 
On whether the ballot papers which had only single ticks beside the names of candidates and party symbols below the line, were valid within the meaning of s.116 of the Electoral Act and ought to have been included in the count.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1596966 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid1596966 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Court finds the ballot papers invalid and were properly excluded from the count.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 3. \tab 
On whether there are legal grounds for arguing that the verification process of Postal Ballots under s.106 or verification of ballot paper accounts under s.112, require the presence of the Petitioner or her/his agent.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Court does not find any legal support to such an interpretation of the two sections.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10953055 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Joeli Kalou and Lavenia Kau Padarath\rquote s Petitions}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Having ruled against the Petitioners on the preliminary legal issues, the question is whether there is, sufficient grounds remaining in the two Petitions of Joeli Kalou and Lavenia Kau Padarath, to allow them to proceed.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Those that are left, are basically allegations of facts which can only be substantiated at a hearing.
\par 
\par The Court is however minded}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
that in deciding whether to proceed to a full hearing, it must be guided by the proposition that sufficient number of ballots remain in contention which will affect the results of the election.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (See }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (Gary Bernard Fenlon}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  Case (supra)
\par 
\par In respect of }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Mrs Lavenia Padarath}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  petition, a total of 600}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93unverified or improperly verified postal ballots\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  were alleged to have been included in the count.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Petitioner conceded that she lost to the winning candidate, the Third Respondent by a margin of 1650 votes.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Given the fact that any hearing of the Petition will only involve the 600 ballots and even if such numbers were excluded f
rom the count, the result will not affect the final outcome of the Nausori/Naitasiri Constituency as declared by the Returning Officer on 6th September, 2001, the Court has no alternative but to dismiss the Petition in its totality.
\par 
\par Similarly, }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Mr Joeli Kalou\rquote s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  petition contended that a total of 583 postal ballots}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 were}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 introduced}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 into the count without proper verification process having being satisfied.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The margin of the Third Respondent\rquote s victory was 1520 votes.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Again if the Petition were to proceed to a hearing, it will be only in respect of the 583 postal ballots.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
Even if they were to be declared as invalid votes, the final figures will not affect the result of the Cunningham Open Constituency as declared by the Returning Officer on 5th September, 2001.
\par 
\par Under the circumstances Joeli Kalou\rquote s petition is also dismissed.
\par 
\par There remains the final of the 3 Petitions, that of }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 John Ali\rquote s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Court\rquote s ruling on the three (3) preliminary legal issues, affecting the other two Petitions, apply equally in this case.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 There are however additional issues raised by the Petitioner which sets it apart from the other two.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 These are set out in details at paragraph 12(b) (d) of the Petition and is summarised as follows:
\par 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\insrsid8023293\charrsid12802115 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 1)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\jclisttab\tx720\wrapdefault\faauto\ls10\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid12802115 
Whether the ballot papers (alleged by the Petitioner 
to be 47 in all) which were declared invalid and excluded from the count because they did not have on the back the initials of the presiding officer or clerk and the official mark should have been declared valid within the meaning of s.73 and s.116 (1) (a
) of the Electoral Act 1998.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid12802115 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\insrsid8023293\charrsid12802115 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 2)\tab}}\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\jclisttab\tx720\wrapdefault\faauto\ls10\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid12802115 
Whether there were irregularities committed in respect of Ballot Box Number C1350 to the extent that they substantially affected the outcome of the election.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid12802115 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In respect of the 1st issue, section 116 (1) (a) states :}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12802115\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93Invalid ballot papers
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 116-(1) A ballot paper }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12802115 \endash }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12802115\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (a) \tab that does not have on its back }{
\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 the initials of the presiding officer or clerk or the official mark referred to to section 73 (1) (c)}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 ;}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1596966 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1596966\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (b) ................}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1596966 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1596966\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (c) ................}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1596966 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1596966\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12802115 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (d) ................
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 is, subject to this section, invalid and any votes marked on it must not be counted.\'94}{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (emphasis added)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Section 73 deals with voting procedure s.73 (1) stipulates the duties of the presiding officer or clerk and specifically she or he must:
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93Mark the back of the ballot paper with the initials of the presiding officer or clerk, }{
\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 or with }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \tab }{\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
an official mark to be used only for the elections in progress\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (s.73 (1) (c).}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (emphasis added)
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2165655 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The voter\rquote s responsibilities on the other hand, is set out under s.73 (2) as follows:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2165655 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93(2)\tab The voter must -
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (a) \tab 
upon receipt of the ballot paper, retire to a compartment or place within the polling station.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (b) \tab privately mark his or her vote on the paper in the way prescribed by section 75.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (c) \tab fold up the paper so as to conceal his or her vote }{
\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 but so as to show the initials of the presiding officer or clerk or the official mark on the back of paper}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 ;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15748304 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (d) \tab show the presiding officer or clerk the }{
\b\i\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 initials or mark}{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  on the back of the paper; and
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (e) \tab place the paper in a ballot box in the presence of the presiding officer.\'94}{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (emphasis added)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par The Petitioner alleged that a number of ballot papers were declared invalid and excluded from the count as they failed to have both the initial of the presiding officer or clerk as well as the official mark used for the election.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In other words the election officials had interpreted the requirements of s.73 (1) (c) conjunctively instead of an }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93either or\'94}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 arrangement.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The ballot paper should bear the initials of either the presiding officer/clerk or }{
\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93or an official mark to be used only for the election in progress.\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par 
\par The First and Second R
espondents have conceded in the Agreed Facts already filed, that a number of ballot papers were excluded from the count because they did not bear the initials of the presiding officer or clerk and the official mark used for the election.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 They agreed that in so doing there had been mistakes made.
\par 
\par Counsel for the Third Respondent while conceding that both section 116 (1) (a) and section 73 (1) (c) should be read disjunctively, submitted that the phrase }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93
an official mark to be used only for the election in progress\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  when read together with the definition of }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93election
\'94 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 in section 2 of the Act (which means individual election in any given constituency and not a general one), can only make sense}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 for the purposes of s.116 (1) if such a mark is}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 used}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 exclusively}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 for the election}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 in a particular constituency.
\par 
\par Counsel in addition argued that it was common practice for Returning Officers to put their stamps on the back of all ballot papers.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
However since such stamp was used for all the ballots in the Division for which she or he is the Returning Officer, this stamp does not qualify to be an }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93official mark\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  for the purposes of s.116 (1) (a).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 In the Counsel\rquote 
s view, there was no official mark as strictly required under the Act, and therefore only the presiding officers\rquote  initials were required in order to mark the ballot papers valid.
\par 
\par After having carefully considered the submissions made on this issue plus the First and Second Respondents concession on the same, the Court believes that there may have been ballot papers 
rejected because they did not have both the initials of presiding officer or clerk and as well as the official mark of the election.
\par 
\par The second issue is whether there were irregularities committed in respect of Ballot Box Number C1350 and if so, whether the irregularities complained of affected the result of the election.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Petitioners alleged that contrary to }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93documentation\'94}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  the Ballot Box contained an extra 167 ballot papers, instead of the 529 expected to be in the Box.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Furthermore, according to the Petitioner, the seal of the Ballot Box had been broken and the seal found inside the Box.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 There are no other details contained in the Petition.
\par 
\par Counsel for the Third Respondent submitted that there is insufficient particulars on the allegations for it to satisfy the requirements of s.144 (a).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 For example, the Petitioner referred to }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93documentation\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
 that }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93expected\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
 the 529 ballot papers, instead of the 696 that were found in Box C1350, but failed to specify what or whose documents is being referred to.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
The co
mplaint against the broken seal found inside the Ballot Box, according to Counsel, did not only contain insufficient details given that there are 3 types of seal on a Ballot Box, but the Petitioner himself failed to point to any particular provisions of t
he Act that had been breached.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
This applied to both allegations of the extra ballots and the broken seal, and how they would have affected the result of the election. The same argument on insufficient particulars apply to the allegation set oout at paragrap
h 12 (b) (i) of the Petition. The First Respondent the Returning Officer, in turn has in his affidavits, attempted to clarify that misunderstanding not only of the alleged discrepancies in the number of ballot papers, but how it arose.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par 
\par The demands placed on the Petitioner by section 144 of the Act are very stringent indeed.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
It requires not only facts that the Petitioner will rely upon, but the facts are to be specific and sufficient in details and particulars for the parties including the court, to readil
y identify the matters which the Petitioner is relying upon for the grant of relief.
\par 
\par There are a number of Australian Court decisions }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 (Pavlekovich-Smith}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Australian Electoral Commission}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  (1993) 115 ALR 641; }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Cole}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Lacey}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  (Supra) }{
\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 McLure}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  vs }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Australian Electoral Commission}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  (1999) HCA 31) that have ruled on their equivalent to our s.144, that the Petition should not only allege }{\b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 \'93
sufficient material or essential facts\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586  but at the same time specify the breach to the Act.
\par 
\par It is clear from the Petitioner\rquote s alleged facts that additional evidence will need to be adduced to lend support and give clarity to the allegations.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Counsel for the Petitioner agreed that these allegations can only be substantiated and proved in evidence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 There is no doubt that the only way for the Court to truly ascertain the full details of the allegations is through the hearing of evidence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 But the question really is whether the Petitioner has passed the test of s.144 (a) and (b) to enable the process to go a stage further.
\par 
\par Having regards t
o all the arguments, the Court hold the view that the allegations by the Petitioner for irregularities in respect of Ballot Box Number C1350, do not contain sufficient details and particulars so as to conform with the requirements of s.144 (a) and (b) of 
the Act.
\par 
\par But even if the Court were to assume for a moment that there are sufficient particulars of the alleged facts to allow the matter to proceed further, the question to be asked is whether the additional votes found in Ballot Box C1350 would have affe
cted the result of the election.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 There were 167 alleged additional votes in Box C1350 which were included in the common bin and counted.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 Again assuming that the total 167 ballot papers were found to be invalid votes for the Third Respondent, these still wo
uld not alter the result of the elections.
\par 
\par I am fully aware of the argument by Counsel for the Petitioner that the additional ballot papers and broken seal of the Ballot Box suggests that irregularities were of a substantial nature, perhaps not necessarily localised to Box C1350.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The fact remains however that there had been insufficient particulars for the Court to identify the specific matters alleged.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 At any rate the Returning Officer,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 on the circumstances surrounding the Box C1350 had in his affidavit confirmed that all the ballot papers had been verified in the presence of all candidates or their agents.
\par 
\par In summary :
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\insrsid15748304 (1)\tab }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid15748304 
Whether there were Irregularities Committed in respect of Ballot Box Number C1350 and if so, whether the irregularities complained of affected the result of the election.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid15748304 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid15748304 The Court finds in the nagative;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\insrsid8023293\charrsid15748304 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\insrsid15748304 (2)\tab }{\insrsid8023293\charrsid15748304 Whether the ballot papers which were declared 
invalid and excluded from the count because they did not have on the back the initials of the presiding officer or clerk and the official mark of the election.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par }\pard \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The Court finds in favour of the Petitioner.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
\par Having found that there is sufficient grounds for the Petitioner to proceed further in respect of paragraph 12(e) of its Amended Petition, the Court is nevertheless aware that the numbers of ballot papers that are involved is only 47.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 The number of votes between the Petitioner and the Third Respondent is 290 votes.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
So even if this Court were to order a re-count in respect of these, excluded ballot papers, the result would not affect the final outcome of the Nasinu/Rewa Open Constituency as announced by the Returning Officer on 5th September 2001.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 I am the
refore satisfied that the failure of the First Respondent to include these ballot papers, would not have affected the result of the election.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
As a result, these parts of the Petition are dismissed.
\par 
\par The Court under all the circumstances, concludes that all 3 Petitioner have failed}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 to establish}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586 
 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 prima facie cases that would enable the Petitions to proceed further.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid535586  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid535586 
These Petitions are therefore dismissed.
\par 
\par As to the costs, the Court will deal with them upon submissions by Counsel
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15748304 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid15748304 F. Jitoko
\par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid15748304 JUDGE}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid15748304 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid535586 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8023293\charrsid15748304 At Suva
\par 18 October 2002
\par }}