Independent MP Sachida Nand has expressed in Parliament that no constitution should remain rigid and unchangeable, emphasizing the necessity for constitutional review and amendments. Supporting the proposed amendments to Chapter 11 of the 2013 Constitution, Nand asserted that the document must be adaptable to effectively meet the evolving needs of the populace.
“A constitution should be able to be amended as and when the need arises, and the process of amending it should be accessible to all citizens, not just a select few,” he stated, highlighting a spirit of inclusivity in governance. He added that the amendment process should actively involve the public, ensuring that citizen feedback is integral to any changes made.
Nand criticized the existing Constitution, characterizing it as the product of an elite few, and he remarked that it ought to be a “living, breathing document” that responds dynamically to the changing demands of society. He challenged those spreading fear and misinformation to cease exploiting the concerns of ordinary Fijians for political gain.
This sentiment aligns well with the broader parliamentary discussions that have emerged surrounding the 2013 Constitution. Other lawmakers have echoed the calls for a more inclusive constitution, with various MPs advocating for engagement from a wider array of voices within Fiji. Minister Filimoni Vosarogo previously criticized the Constitution for being insufficiently representative, highlighting the importance of crafting a document that reflects the will of the people rather than a privileged minority.
As debates continue, there is hope that these dialogues will facilitate a more unified and inclusive governance framework that accurately resonates with the aspirations of all Fijians. The ongoing discussions emphasize the importance of civic participation in democracy, offering a promising outlook for future constitutional reforms that advocate for greater representation and inclusion in political processes.
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