Former Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has urged Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to be wary of “political opportunists and extremists” as Fiji engages in significant discussions about potential amendments to its Constitution. Sayed-Khaiyum took to social media to express his concerns, questioning whether these proposed constitutional changes would genuinely address the pressing issues faced by everyday Fijians.
He reaffirmed that Fijians currently enjoy constitutional protections that safeguard their rights, including those of indigenous peoples. Expressing doubt about the effectiveness of Parliament’s focus on such amendments, Sayed-Khaiyum highlighted critical issues such as the widening gap between the rich and the poor, alongside declining public services and infrastructure. He raised essential questions about whether these political efforts would truly alleviate daily living costs, close societal divides, or improve government services, concluding that they would likely result in minimal benefits for the public.
These comments are in line with Prime Minister Rabuka’s aim to reevaluate the 2013 Constitution, which he argues is crucial for clearly defining state powers and safeguarding fundamental rights. Rabuka has emphasized the need for a constitutional process that reflects Fiji’s rich cultural and ethnic diversity.
As Fiji embarks on these vital discussions regarding constitutional reform, there is optimism that open dialogue and a commitment to inclusive governance can address the concerns raised by Sayed-Khaiyum and others. By ensuring that the needs of ordinary citizens are prioritized, the Rabuka administration may pave the way for enhanced national unity and cooperative progress among Fiji’s varied communities. This approach holds the promise of fostering a more equitable and responsive governing framework in Fiji.
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