Fiji’s Prime Minister welcomes Supreme Court advisory on 2013 Constitution, pledges orderly, inclusive reform
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has welcomed the Supreme Court’s advisory opinion on Fiji’s 2013 Constitution, saying it offers clarity on constitutional law and governance and provides a clear, democratic pathway for future reform.
In a statement this afternoon, Rabuka confirmed that the Coalition Government fully accepts the Court’s opinion. He stressed that the advisory shows the amendment process that once required 75 percent support in both Parliament and among registered voters is unworkable. The Court instead delineated a pathway in which constitutional amendments will proceed with two-thirds support in Parliament and a simple majority of voters in a national referendum.
Rabuka praised the inclusive nature of the process, noting submissions from the State, seven political parties, the Fiji Law Society, and the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission. “The Government acknowledges with gratitude the Court’s diligence and the contributions of all parties who took part in this important process,” he said.
Reaffirming the Coalition’s commitment to constitutionalism and due process, Rabuka underscored that the government has consistently sought clarity from the courts rather than imposing unilateral change. “This outcome reflects our commitment to the rule of law, and to inclusive, democratic decision making,” he affirmed.
The Prime Minister added that the Court’s opinion will now be considered by Cabinet before any next steps are announced. He highlighted that a clear and democratic pathway is established to ensure stability, continuity, and transparency in constitutional reform, and urged citizens to stay engaged in shaping Fiji’s future.
A voice for all Fiji
Rabuka also emphasized the importance of public participation in the reform process. “Your voice matters in shaping Fiji’s future, and together we will move forward with clarity and confidence,” he said in a closing note.
What happens next
Rabuka confirmed that the Cabinet will review the Court’s advisory and determine the government’s next steps, signaling a careful, law-abiding route forward rather than rushed action. The opinion’s emphasis on parliamentary consensus paired with citizen buy-in through referenda lays the groundwork for broader, more inclusive debate on constitutional reform.
Value-added context
– The ruling marks a transition away from the previously entrenched threshold, aligning Fiji’s reform process with a more feasible mechanism that still safeguards democratic legitimacy.
– Observers note the advisory could pave the way for nationwide dialogue, potentially including a formal constitutional review process to ensure proposals reflect a broad cross-section of Fiji’s society.
– The emphasis on lawful, peaceful engagement reinforces a stabilizing approach to constitutional questions and the electoral timetable.
Possible implications for Fiji’s reform timeline
– Parliament and political parties will need to negotiate and prepare for readings that meet the two-thirds threshold, with any binding changes requiring a referendum.
– Civil society and legal groups may increasingly participate in consultations and public education to help voters understand proposed amendments and their implications.
– The government’s cautious, court-guided path could influence how and when constitutional changes are pursued in relation to upcoming elections and governance reforms.
Positive outlook
Analysts view the advisory as a constructive step toward a more transparent and participatory constitutional reform process. By embedding strong checks and public involvement, Fiji can pursue meaningful change while preserving stability and the rule of law.
Summary
Fiji’s leader welcomed a Supreme Court advisory that replaces the onerous 75 percent thresholds with a practical two-step pathway—two-thirds parliamentary support followed by a simple majority in a referendum. The Cabinet will assess the opinion as the government continues to pursue inclusive, lawful constitutional reform, inviting broad participation from across Fiji’s political and civil society landscape.
Commentary
This development signals a potential turning point in Fiji’s constitutional evolution. A clearer, more participatory framework could empower both lawmakers and citizens to shape a constitution that reflects the will of the people while maintaining essential safeguards for governance and stability. Citizens should expect continued, constructive dialogue supported by transparent government action and judicial guidance as Fiji moves forward.
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