Fiji’s Bold Move: A New Constitution on the Horizon?

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has put forward the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2025, marking a pivotal shift in Fiji’s constitutional reform process. The central goal of this bill is to make constitutional amendments more efficient and responsive to the country’s evolving needs.

In his address, Rabuka highlighted that the proposed reforms will simplify the language of Chapter 11 of the Constitution, increasing clarity and flexibility in governance. A significant change within this bill is the reduction of the threshold for constitutional amendments from three-quarters to two-thirds, which eliminates the previous requirement for a nationwide referendum. This will enable amendments to be enacted more swiftly through Parliament, thereby better reflecting the democratic will of the populace.

Emphasizing the importance of an adaptive Constitution, Rabuka referred to it as a “living document” that should evolve with the aspirations of its citizens. He stated, “The Constitution must therefore be adaptive and able to be molded to reflect the needs of its people.” This initiative aims to address previous criticisms of the 2013 Constitution, which was often seen as undemocratic and overly focused on centralizing executive power.

Rabuka called on members of Parliament to transcend political boundaries, advocating for a collaborative approach that reinforces democracy and unity in Fiji. He articulated a vision for a Constitution that genuinely embodies the principles of justice and unity across diverse communities.

This legislative reform resonates with earlier discussions about increasing public engagement and inclusivity in governance. It appears that past critiques regarding inadequate public consultation during the 2013 Constitution’s rollout have motivated this call for change.

As the legislative process progresses, it brings a positive outlook for Fiji’s governance, emphasizing cooperative efforts to construct a Constitution that reflects the collective voice of its people and enhances democratic representation. By fostering a more responsive and transparent legal framework, there exists potential for a more united and resilient society that can address contemporary challenges effectively.