Fiji’s political landscape has become a focal point of discussion this week following a provocative statement made by Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, the chairman of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC). He called for constitutional reform, which has since ignited a mixed reaction from various stakeholders across the nation. Ratu Viliame clarified that the chiefs are not pressing for an outright repeal of the 2013 Constitution but seek the power to amend it, an action they deem nearly impossible under the current legal framework.
His comments came on the heels of controversy surrounding a report from a local radio station that erroneously asserted he called for the “total removal” of the 2013 Constitution. This claim has been widely disputed, with multiple observers contending that it was either misquoted or completely taken out of context.
Listeners were quick to express their discontent over the inaccuracies, and several public figures voiced their concern, stating that Ratu Viliame never made such a definitive declaration. Ratu Viliame himself expressed, “At the moment, you can’t make amendments to this Constitution. We want that door opened so we can look inside and make changes to the ones we need to change.” He noted that the existing 75 percent parliamentary and public approval thresholds for constitutional changes are a significant barrier.
Concerns regarding these proposed changes have particularly resonated among Indo-Fijians. Community members like Vineel Nand emphasized the need for public consultation and a cautious approach to any potential amendments, especially given Fiji’s current socio-political state.
This conversation about constitutional reform echoes similar discussions surrounding the recently rejected Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2025, which sought to change the amendment process of the 2013 Constitution. Voices like Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica and Justice Minister Siromi Turaga have stressed the importance of a constitution that promotes unity and transparently reflects the will of all Fijians, advocating for inclusive governance that can address historical grievances based on the nation’s previous political challenges.
As Fiji continues to navigate the complexities of these discussions, there remains a hopeful outlook for engaging citizens in the constitutional reform process. This momentum indicates a notable desire for a more representative governance structure that can facilitate dialogue, democracy, and unity among the country’s diverse communities. Engaging in these discussions can lead to a more participatory political framework, fostering national cohesion and uplifting the aspirations of all Fijians.
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