Lands Minister Filimoni Vosarogo has called on former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum to identify the individuals involved in drafting Fiji’s 2013 Constitution. This request follows Sayed-Khaiyum’s comments regarding the government’s proposed efforts to amend the Constitution through questionable means. Vosarogo emphasized that instead of elaborate discussions, Sayed-Khaiyum should simply disclose the authors of the Constitution.
In his statements, Vosarogo added that Attorney General Graham Leung will soon brief the Cabinet on the government’s next steps, which may include seeking a court ruling concerning both the legitimacy of the current Constitution and the status of the 1997 Constitution.
Previously, Sayed-Khaiyum has defended the 2013 Constitution, asserting that it was developed through extensive public consultations rather than in secrecy. He underscored the pivotal role of the National Council for Building a Better Fiji (NCBBF) in soliciting input from diverse stakeholders before finalizing the Constitution, which included key recommendations like shortening government terms and safeguarding iTaukei land ownership.
The ongoing debate about the Constitution points to a broader conversation about its inclusivity and the importance of involving the Fijian population in governance. Calls from Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica and Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu for a review highlight the desire for a constitutional framework that reflects the diverse views within Fiji.
This discussion not only underscores the necessity for transparency in governance but also inspires hope for a Constitution that better represents the voices of all Fijians. Such collaborative efforts may enhance citizen engagement in the political sphere, encouraging meaningful reforms that align with the public’s aspirations.
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