Lands Minister Filimoni Vosarogo has urged former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum to clarify who was involved in drafting Fiji’s 2013 Constitution. His call comes after Sayed-Khaiyum suggested there is much to discuss regarding the government’s alleged attempts to alter the Constitution through dubious methods. Vosarogo contended that rather than delving into extensive details, Sayed-Khaiyum should simply reveal the drafters of the Constitution.
In his remarks, Vosarogo mentioned that Attorney General Graham Leung is expected to inform the Cabinet about the government’s next steps, which include seeking a court ruling on the Constitution’s legitimacy and the status of the 1997 Constitution.
Sayed-Khaiyum, in his previous statements, has defended the Constitution, asserting it emerged from extensive public consultations rather than being crafted in secrecy. He highlighted the National Council for Building a Better Fiji’s (NCBBF) fundamental role in gathering input from various stakeholders prior to the drafting of the Constitution, which included significant recommendations such as the reduction of government terms and the protection of iTaukei land ownership.
The ongoing discussions about the Constitution reflect a larger dialogue around its inclusivity and the necessity of engaging the Fijian populace in governance matters. Figures like Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica and Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu have also called for a review to ensure the Constitution mirrors the diverse opinions within Fiji.
This dialogue not only emphasizes the need for transparency in governance but fosters hope for a constitutional framework that is more representative of the voices of all Fijians, ultimately paving the way for a more united and responsive government. Through collaborative discussions, there is potential to enhance citizen engagement in the political process, leading to meaningful changes that resonate with the public’s needs.
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