The review of the 2013 Constitution is officially underway, as announced in the 2025-2029 National Development Plan (NDP) unveiled by Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica.
The NDP indicates that enhancing the safety, security, and wellbeing of Fiji and its citizens requires a robust regulatory and legal framework, as well as improved cooperation among law enforcement agencies. Key actions outlined in the plan include:
– Conducting a review of the 2013 Constitution of the Republic of Fiji.
– Promoting the rule of law on both regional and international fronts and ensuring equitable access to justice for all.
– Revising legislation governing law enforcement agencies to improve transparency and efficiency.
– Ensuring the separation and independence of the three branches of Government: the Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary.
– Strengthening the capabilities within the Office of the Attorney-General, which includes its legislative drafting division, the Law Reform Commission, and the Fiji Intellectual Property Office.
– Eliminating unfair discrimination and reducing arbitrary misuse of broad discretionary powers within the legal framework.
– Establishing protections against the abuse of discretionary powers and removing clauses that limit judicial review of administrative decisions made by Ministers and public officials.
– Reviewing constitutional processes to amend provisions that affect the independence of key institutions, including judicial commissions, the Fijian Elections Office, the Reserve Bank of Fiji, and other fiduciary entities.
– Implementing the Fiji Protective Security Framework to enhance institutional safety.
– Improving coordination among security and rehabilitation entities.
– Ensuring public access to information and safeguarding fundamental rights, in line with national laws and international agreements, while also allocating sufficient human resources within institutions.