Attorney General Graham Leung has stated that seeking clarification from the Supreme Court regarding amendments to the Constitution is still a viable option after the recent defeat of the Constitution Amendment Bill 2025. Following this setback, he indicated that the government will reevaluate its next course of action.
Leung reiterated that the Constitution provides a pathway for the government to seek an advisory opinion from the Supreme Court. He acknowledged that had the amendment passed, it would have facilitated numerous changes, specifically addressing what he views as an excessive concentration of power within the office of the Attorney General. He noted the constitutional provisions concerning elections are seen as undemocratic and unfair, particularly criticizing the five percent threshold for parliamentary qualification, which tends to disadvantage smaller parties and independent candidates.
Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad expressed his disappointment in the Opposition’s majority vote against the bill, suggesting that they missed a significant opportunity to review the Constitution, despite mutual recognition of its need for amendments. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the amendment process is procedural and was consistent with the goal of initiating a serious constitutional review.
On the other hand, Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has claimed that lobbying occurred leading up to the bill’s debate, though he expressed satisfaction with the vote’s outcome that favors the Opposition.
The context of this ongoing discussion about constitutional amendments aligns with previous remarks made by Attorney General Leung regarding the need for a constitution to evolve along with societal changes. He has previously noted the importance of careful deliberation and a collaborative approach involving various political factions and civil society organizations in the constitutional reform process.
This current backdrop sets the stage for a hopeful dialogue on governance, where the potential for constructive change remains alive. The government appears committed to engaging with diverse perspectives and addressing public sentiment, which suggests there is continued interest and effort towards aligning the Constitution with the evolving aspirations of the people. Through ongoing discussions and consultations, the path forward may lead to a more democratic and representative governance framework.
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