Constitutional reform in Fiji is expected to be a complex process fraught with challenges. Nilesh Lal, executive director of Dialogue Fiji, emphasized the importance of fostering a marketplace of ideas to shape the nation’s constitution. According to him, accommodating a variety of perspectives is crucial, although not all opinions hold equal value.
Lal pointed out that many people are hesitant about constitutional changes because the current government has not been transparent about the proposed modifications. He stressed the need for the government to build trust with citizens by engaging with various groups that represent all Fijians.
He called for thorough discussions about the existing 2013 Constitution, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. Lal advocated for open discourse on constitutional matters, asserting that all viewpoints should be subject to scrutiny.
Moreover, he warned against hastily implementing constitutional changes, cautioning that such a rush could lead to political instability and be exploited by politicians for personal gain. He noted that past experiences have shown that new constitutions often arise from dissatisfaction among political actors, resulting in further chaos.
Ultimately, Lal stated that the aim of reform should be to promote growth and improve the lives of all Fijians.