Former Social Democratic Liberal Party MP Tanya Waqanika has expressed her strong backing for Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s goal to broaden his support within Parliament to facilitate amendments to the 2013 Constitution. Speaking with FijiLive, Waqanika conveyed confidence in Rabuka’s political strategy, stating, “He knows what he is doing. He is politically savvy, and if they need to get the numbers to change the Constitution, so be it.”

At a recent media conference, Prime Minister Rabuka revealed that his Coalition Government commands about 70 percent of the 55 parliamentary votes, equating to 38 seats. However, he acknowledged that this falls short of the 42 votes required for the three-quarters majority essential for constitutional amendments, with the opposition holding 16 votes. “We are still four votes short,” he noted, indicating a significant challenge ahead.

Rabuka emphasized the importance of reviewing and amending the Constitution as a primary objective of his administration, aimed at aligning the governing framework with democratic principles and reflecting Fiji’s multi-ethnic and multicultural tapestry. He expressed a commitment to fostering dialogue and consensus-building within various communities, ensuring that all voices are heard in the governance process.

Waqanika’s endorsement is seen as a promising sign for Rabuka’s coalition government, indicating potential for greater unity and collaborative efforts in Fiji’s political landscape. Such engagement may serve to create a more inclusive governance structure, enhancing representation for all Fijians.

In summary, although the journey towards constitutional reform in Fiji is fraught with challenges, the proactive engagement from leaders like Rabuka and Waqanika offers hope for a more democratic and unified future. Their efforts may pave the way for a governance framework that not only addresses the diverse aspirations of the Fijian people but also fosters a spirit of collaboration and progress.