All Members of the Fijian Parliament have been instructed by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to avoid traveling during the upcoming parliamentary session to ensure a strong presence for crucial legislative votes. This directive comes ahead of significant discussions regarding proposed reforms, including the Constitution Amendment Bill, which aims to address the current constitutional constraints.
In an interview held outside the FHL Tower, Prime Minister Rabuka emphasized the importance of maintaining a full attendance of government members in Parliament, stating, “At the moment I’m asking all the members on the government side not to travel. It’s very important for us to be all present in all sitting days.” The Parliament session is set to begin next Monday, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Rabuka linked the need for full participation to the government’s plans to amend the 2013 Constitution, notably reinforcing the requirement for a national referendum for any changes to the Constitution. While he acknowledged that Fiji currently lacks a referendum system, he affirmed that establishing this process is essential for the legitimacy of any constitutional amendments. “We don’t yet have a referendum system in place… Amendments require a referenda,” he stated.
The Supreme Court recently clarified that amendments to the Constitution can only proceed with a two-thirds majority in Parliament, coupled with majority voter approval in a referendum. This shifted the previous requirement, which mandated an unattainable three-quarters approval from registered voters, thus creating a feasible pathway for reform.
Rabuka has previously indicated that his government currently lacks the votes needed for a three-quarter majority to pass the amendments, with approximately 70% of seats held in Parliament. This acknowledgment of the challenges faced in garnering support highlights his strategic approach to ensure that all government MPs are present to strengthen their stance during the voting process.
As Fiji prepares for this pivotal parliamentary sitting, there is cautious optimism surrounding the potential for constitutional reform. The move towards an inclusive governance framework that reflects the diverse voices of Fijians is a hopeful trajectory, promising greater representation and engagement in Fiji’s political processes. As Parliament convenes, the government’s efforts to reform the Constitution signal a commitment to evolving the country’s democratic landscape and fostering national unity.
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