The review of the 2013 Constitution is officially underway. This was announced in the 2025-2029 National Development Plan (NDP) introduced by Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica.
The NDP highlighted the necessity to enhance the regulatory and legal framework and to foster collaboration between law and order agencies to ensure the safety, security, and wellbeing of Fiji and its citizens. Key points from the plan include:
– Revisiting the 2013 Constitution of the Republic of Fiji.
– Promoting the rule of law internationally and regionally, ensuring equal access to justice for everyone.
– Evaluating all laws concerning law enforcement agencies for 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, which includes legislative drafting, the Law Reform Commission, and the Fiji Intellectual Property Office.
– Eliminating unfair discrimination and mitigating arbitrary abuse through broad discretionary laws.
– Introducing safeguards against the misuse of discretionary powers and abolishing provisions that restrict judicial review of administrative discretion given to Ministers and public officials.
– Reviewing constitutional procedures and proposing amendments to guarantee the independence of essential institutions such as judicial commissions, the Fijian Elections Office, the Reserve Bank of Fiji, and other fiduciary bodies.
– Implementing the Fiji Protective Security Framework to protect institutions.
– Enhancing cooperation 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.