The Constitutional Offices Commission has confirmed that Dr Maurice Coughlan has agreed to withdraw from the Post of Supervisor of Elections.
Commission Chairman Rishi Ram confirmed that during their meeting this afternoon, Dr Coughlan sent in a letter to inform them that he is withdrawing from the position as Supervisor of Elections in-light of what has happened.
Member of the COC, lawyer Gavin O'Driscoll said Dr Coughlan was given an opportunity to reveal such details to them which he failed to do.
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O'Driscoll also confirmed that the second candidate shortlisted will now be approached to take up the post of Supervisor of Elections. He stressed that they will not repeat their mistake and conduct a thorough background check.
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When contacted this afternoon in NZ, Doctor Maurice Coughlan only said that he made the decision to withdraw to allow the Constitutional Offices Commission to look for a suitable Supervisor of Elections.
Doctor Coughlan said a lot has been said about his appointment and he knows Fiji needs to appoint a Supervisor of Elections as soon as possible. He says in the best interest of everyone he has made the decision and the matter should now be put to rest. He did not want to make any further comments.
