The review of the 2013 Constitution of Fiji has officially been approved. This decision was announced during the launch of the 2025-2029 National Development Plan (NDP) by Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica.
The NDP emphasizes the importance of reinforcing the regulatory and legal frameworks to enhance the safety, security, and overall well-being of Fiji and its citizens. Key areas highlighted for improvement include:
– A thorough review of the 2013 Constitution.
– Promoting the rule of law both regionally and internationally, ensuring equitable access to justice for all.
– Revising all legislation concerning law enforcement agencies to boost transparency and efficiency.
– Upholding the separation and independence of the three branches of Government: the Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary.
– Enhancing the capacity and expertise within the Office of the Attorney-General, especially its legislative drafting division, the Law Reform Commission, and the Fiji Intellectual Property Office.
– Eliminating unfair discrimination and addressing the arbitrary abuse of broad discretionary powers.
– Implementing safeguards against the misuse of discretionary powers and abolishing provisions that restrict judicial review of administrative decisions made by Ministers and public officials.
– Reviewing constitutional procedures to ensure independence for essential institutions such as judicial commissions, the Fijian Elections Office, the Reserve Bank of Fiji, and other fiduciary entities.
– Executing the Fiji Protective Security Framework to protect institutions.
– Improving coordination among security and rehabilitation agencies.
– Ensuring public access to information and safeguarding fundamental freedoms, in line with national laws and international agreements, while providing adequate human resources within institutions.