The review of the 2013 Constitution of Fiji has officially been set in motion. 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 enhancing the regulatory and legal framework to ensure the safety, security, and wellbeing of Fiji and its citizens. Key initiatives outlined in the plan include:
– A comprehensive review of the 2013 Constitution of the Republic of Fiji.
– Promotion of the rule of law at both regional and international levels, ensuring equal access to justice for all.
– A review of all legislation governing law enforcement agencies to boost transparency and efficiency.
– Safeguarding the separation and independence of the three branches of government: the Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary.
– Strengthening the capacity and expertise within the Office of the Attorney-General, including its legislative drafting division, the Law Reform Commission, and the Fiji Intellectual Property Office.
– Addressing unfair discrimination and curbing the arbitrary misuse of broad discretionary laws.
– Implementing safeguards against the abuse of discretionary powers while eliminating provisions that restrict judicial review of administrative discretionary decisions made by ministers and public officials.
– Revisiting all constitutional procedures to amend and ensure the independence of critical institutions, such as the judicial commissions, Fijian Elections Office, Reserve Bank of Fiji, and other fiduciary bodies.
– Applying the Fiji Protective Security Framework to protect institutions.
– Enhancing 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 to support these institutions.