Recent efforts to amend Fiji’s Constitution encountered a notable obstacle when the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2025 was defeated in Parliament. Attorney-General Graham Leung announced that the government plans to reevaluate its approach following the Bill’s failure to achieve the required three-quarters majority of 41 votes. The final vote counted 40 in favor, 14 against, and one abstention, marking a narrow defeat.
Parliament Speaker Filimone Jitoko confirmed that the lack of sufficient support would prevent the Bill from moving forward, reiterating the necessity of a supermajority as dictated by parliamentary regulations. Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga expressed his disappointment, stating, “We are disappointed because they can’t see the way forward. We are not going outside of the constitution; we are complying with it.”
In light of this outcome, the government is considering seeking clarification from the Supreme Court, a strategy previously noted by Leung. He mentioned that there exists a legal pathway for the cabinet to request advisory opinions while they explore possible amendments aimed at addressing issues like power concentration and the integrity of the electoral process.
Moreover, Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica and other coalition leaders reiterated their commitment to constitutional reform, perceiving this setback as an opportunity to engage with the public more thoroughly and promote a governance framework that is inclusive and reflective of the citizens’ aspirations. Kamikamica emphasized that although the Opposition has temporarily halted the Bill, the government will persist in its efforts to enact constitutional changes that resonate with the desires of the Fijian people.
This legislative event demonstrates the ongoing conversation surrounding Fiji’s constitutional matters, underscoring the need for civic involvement and a dedication to democratic principles. The continuous engagement among various political factions suggests a optimistic path forward, aiming for a constitutional structure that accommodates the diverse perspectives within the country and aligns with the population’s evolving expectations.
Overall, while this setback presents a pause in the legislative journey, the government’s determination to rejuvenate discussions and explore alternative routes for reform signals a hopeful vision for the future of Fiji’s constitutional governance.
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