Opposition Member of Parliament Viliame Naupoto has expressed concerns that the 2013 Constitution has failed to foster unity among the people of Fiji. During his statement in Parliament at the end of the week, Naupoto highlighted that the current Constitution has a significant drawback stemming from the manner in which it was established.
He pointed out that there is a considerable divide in support for the Constitution, primarily along political lines, suggesting that many perceive it as being tied to a specific political party. Since the first election conducted under this Constitution in 2014, it has faced ongoing criticism and, at times, ridicule both within the Parliament and beyond. Various individuals and organizations have continuously called for a review of the Constitution.
Naupoto emphasized the necessity of amending the Constitution, urging fellow MPs to recognize the importance of bringing the Constitution back to the public for review and necessary amendments. He reassured that the effort to revise the Constitution is not aimed against any individual or political faction but is instead focused on the welfare of the people, nation-building, and promoting democracy. He advocated that this process is essential for advancing Fiji’s young democracy.