Opposition Member of Parliament Ketan Lal has called for the dissolution of the Fiji Law Reform Commission’s review team, asserting that its members should not hold any political affiliations. Speaking in Parliament, Lal addressed Justice Minister Siromi Turaga’s recent statements regarding the Ministry of Justice Services and the Election Legislation Review Process, expressing concerns about the team’s credibility and impartiality.
Lal emphasized the need for a review team comprised of independent professionals from civil society, legal experts, women’s and youth groups, and other non-partisan stakeholders. “This is essential for building trust,” he stated, stressing that a politically affiliated team would undermine the legitimacy of the process.
He pointed out low participation rates in public consultations held in Suva and Tailevu, attributing this to public skepticism about the review’s impartiality. “The public sees a process lacking credibility, feeling more like a political exercise than a genuine effort to listen to the people,” Lal remarked, echoing sentiments he and other opposition MPs have consistently voiced.
Lal further criticized Minister Turaga for failing to address ongoing concerns raised by the public and the Opposition. He argued that the ministerial updates provided are detached from the realities Fijians face, and he urged for immediate and tangible reforms rather than scripted statements. “Leadership is not about waiting for the right time to speak. It is about having the courage to act when it matters the most.”
Additionally, Lal expressed disappointment that the chair of the review team had made politically charged remarks that he believes detracted from the team’s intended neutrality. He concluded with a call for a reconstitution of the review team, imploring the government to prioritize professionalism and independence in such critical roles.
This situation poses a significant opportunity for the government to genuinely engage with the populace and refine its approach to law reform. By heeding calls for an independent review team, the government may foster a stronger sense of trust and transparency, essential for a healthy democratic process in Fiji. The proactive stance taken by Lal and other opposition members serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability in governance that aligns with the people’s needs and aspirations.
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