Opposition MP Sachida Nand has voiced strong criticism of Fiji’s current 2013 Constitution, alleging it was designed mainly to serve one person and fails to represent the aspirations of the Fijian people. During debates on the Prime Minister’s Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2025, Nand stressed the necessity of amendments to make the Constitution reflect the true needs and desires of the citizens.
He pointed out that the Constitution must adapt to changing circumstances and that the amendment process should be open to all citizens, not just a select few. Nand referred to this amendment opportunity as vital for transforming the Constitution into a document that genuinely belongs to the people. He dismissed opposing views advocating for the Constitution to remain unchanged as antithetical to democratic principles.
Nand further reassured the public that the proposed amendments would not infringe on their rights, assuring that the Bill of Rights would remain intact and that the principle of equal citizenship would continue to ensure fairness under the law.
This viewpoint is shared by other members of Parliament, including independent MPs, who have expressed a need for reforms. They highlight the concern that the existing Constitution does not adequately represent the diverse voices within Fiji. Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, similarly called for a collaboratively created Constitution, reflecting past grievances about its limited drafting process involving only a small group of officials.
However, some critics, including Opposition MP Ketan Lal, have raised concerns regarding the government’s intentions, suggesting that certain proposals may aim to centralize power rather than promote democracy. These discussions reflect a wider parliamentary concern about governance direction and the urgent need for inclusive civic engagement in the constitutional reform process.
As these discussions progress, there remains hope that they will encourage greater unity and inclusiveness in Fiji’s governance. This could lead to a constitutional framework that resonates with the aspirations of all citizens, reinforcing the commitment to strengthen democracy and prioritize individual rights in governance.
Leave a comment