Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, has recently asserted that the 2013 Constitution of Fiji was not genuinely selected by the populace but was imposed by an unelected regime following the 2006 military coup. In a parliamentary address, Kamikamica noted that this constitution replaced the 1997 Constitution, which was developed through a comprehensive national dialogue and political consensus involving extensive public input.
He highlighted the efforts of the Yash Ghai Commission, which gathered over 7,000 submissions from Fijians to draft a constitution that reflected the country’s diverse perspectives. Unfortunately, this draft was discarded, and instead, the current Constitution, which lacked the people’s mandate, was imposed behind closed doors. Kamikamica stated, “A Constitution belongs to the people, not a select few who seek to consolidate power,” emphasizing the need for a constitutional review.
This call for a review resonates with various political leaders, including Acting Prime Minister Biman Prasad and Minister Filimoni Vosarogo, who have previously criticized the 2013 Constitution for its lack of inclusivity and representation. The growing consensus among these leaders indicates that the current Constitution does not reflect the will of the Fijian people and highlights the necessity for revisiting it to promote unity and inclusiveness.
The proposed review process also aims to rectify historical injustices and enhance citizen participation in governance. Initiatives like the planned Truth and Reconciliation Commission are seen as opportunities to deepen understanding of Fiji’s political history, promoting healing and reconciliation as the nation progresses.
Kamikamica passionately called on Fijians to actively engage in the process of shaping a Constitution that they can truly claim ownership of, urging, “We must stand together, demand a constitutional review, and chart a new path for our beloved nation.” This call embodies a hopeful vision for a more democratic future in Fiji, where the citizens can play a crucial role in governance and shape the framework that safeguards their rights and freedoms.
The ongoing dialogue regarding Fiji’s constitutional review represents a potential shift toward a governance structure that is more inclusive and truly reflective of its people’s voices. This conversation is essential for fostering national cohesion and addressing long-standing political challenges.
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