The Constitution Amendment Bill presented in Parliament is focused primarily on altering the amendment procedure of the 2013 Constitution rather than its substantive provisions. Attorney-General Graham Leung clarified that the upcoming Bill, which is expected to have its first reading next Monday, is a technical document regarding procedural changes.
Leung emphasized the need for any constitution to be dynamic and to reflect the will of the people, noting that “an imposed Constitution lacks legitimacy.” He compared the rigid amendment process of Fiji’s Constitution, which many have criticized as overly complex and challenging to navigate, to other constitutions around the world that have undergone numerous amendments, such as the U.S. Constitution with its 27 amendments since 1788. This comparison underscores the importance of adaptability for constitutional relevance and democratic evolution.
The 2013 Constitution, introduced by the Bainimarama regime, has faced scrutiny for its implementation process, which lacked adequate public consultation. As Leung highlighted, fears about change often stem from a misunderstanding of its necessity in a young democracy.
To facilitate future changes, Leung mentioned that a more participatory process would be initiated, allowing all interested parties to share their views on what aspects of the Constitution they support or oppose. He affirmed that discussions surrounding constitutional changes are vital for fostering a more inclusive governance framework.
Moreover, he indicated that a new code of conduct law would also be introduced in the current parliamentary session, suggesting a broader commitment to reform and transparency. This ongoing legislative dialogue is hopeful for the future, as it reflects a willingness by the government to adapt and respond to the aspirations of its citizens, possibly leading to a more unified and participatory democratic landscape in Fiji.
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