Attorney-General Graham Leung has indicated that one potential avenue to amend the 2013 Constitution is to approach the Supreme Court for an advisory opinion regarding the constitutionality of its amendment provisions. During a recent press conference, Leung expressed his belief that a constitution should be a dynamic document, reflecting the will of the people and adaptable to changing circumstances.
Leung acknowledged the prevalent desire for constitutional changes and emphasized that the government is attentive to these calls. He noted that the upcoming year, 2025, leading to a general election anticipated in 2026, presents a packed agenda for legislative action.
The Attorney-General highlighted the uncertainty surrounding how best to proceed with potential amendments, suggesting that changes could either be implemented in phases or tackled in a comprehensive review. He spoke about the possibility of addressing the “low-hanging fruit” first—easier changes that can be readily made—compared to undertaking a total overhaul of the Constitution.
Leung underscored the complexity of this issue, stating that amending the constitution is not a simple task and that there is no quick fix. He referred to the previous illegal removal of the 1997 Constitution and raised concerns about reverting to it, given that many current parliamentarians were not active during that time frame.
The process of amending the Constitution, according to Leung, requires thoughtful deliberation and a bipartisan approach that includes consultations with various political parties and civil society organizations. He cautioned against hasty changes that could unintentionally destabilize existing institutions, highlighting the importance of careful consideration in these matters.
The Attorney-General noted that changing the Constitution is a multifaceted issue that impacts the supreme law of the land, which in turn influences all other governance aspects. He pointed to the complexity involved in gathering the necessary consensus from parliament members and registered voters for any amendments, referencing a remark from Professor Anthony Reagan of the Australian National University regarding the challenges of changing Fiji’s Constitution.
Moreover, he commented on the value of differing opinions in a democratic society, asserting that respectful and constructive dialogue is essential for healthy discussions about governance.
This ongoing conversation about constitutional change reflects a broader engagement within society and the government, suggesting that while the process may be complex, it presents an opportunity for growth and progress.
In summary, the Attorney-General’s discussion highlights the essential nature of constitutional reform in fostering a responsive government. By encouraging open dialogue and collaboration across the political spectrum, there is a possibility for constructive change that aligns with public desire and upholds democratic values.
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