Fiji’s Constitution Under Scrutiny: A Call for Change and Dialogue

Attorney General Graham Leung spoke before parliament today, underlining the necessity for open dialogue regarding potential amendments to Fiji’s constitution. He criticized the current constitution as overly rigid and contrary to democratic values. Leung noted that Fiji’s constitution is amongst the most difficult in the world to amend, a viewpoint shared by a visiting senior jurist and supported by comparisons with countries like the United States and India, which have successfully implemented numerous constitutional amendments.

In his address, Leung emphasized that a constitution should be a living document that mirrors the people’s will and is adaptable to the evolving needs of society. He remarked, “A constitution that is impossible to change or near impossible to change is the very antithesis of democracy,” warning that this rigidity can lead to public discontent and instability.

Highlighting the government’s legislative agenda, Leung mentioned plans to introduce an amending bill that aims to dismantle the barriers encountered during constitutional revisions. He argued that the process of amending a constitution is a natural aspect of democratic growth and criticized the notion that such discussions should be avoided due to fears about their implications.

Leung’s statements reflect a growing recognition within the government of the public’s desire for constitutional reform, a sentiment echoed in recent political discourse. Ongoing debates are focusing on whether changes should be implemented in stages or through a holistic review, with an emphasis on engaging citizens in the process to secure legitimacy and ownership of the constitutional framework.

The Attorney General’s commitment to constructive dialogue and cooperation suggests a promising opportunity for more inclusive governance. By advocating for a more adaptable constitution, there is hope for a future where governance in Fiji becomes more responsive to its citizens’ aspirations, ultimately enhancing the legitimacy of the constitutional system and fostering greater political unity and collaboration in the country.