In a recent address to Parliament, Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu voiced his concerns regarding the 2012 draft of the Fiji Constitution, authored by Professor Yash Ghai. He asserted that the draft failed to adequately reflect the extensive national consultations conducted by the National Council for Building a Better Fiji in 2007, which involved over 1,000 discussions with diverse communities, organizations, and businesses across the nation.
Seruiratu pointed out that Professor Ghai visited Fiji after discussions in Australia, and he criticized the lack of participation from key political parties during the National Council’s efforts in a turbulent political climate, which he believes impacted the Ghai Report’s development. This exclusion has created a gap between the public’s expectations, articulated in previous reports, and the final version of the Constitution that was adopted in 2013.
This dialogue aligns with a growing discourse among other political leaders, like Viliame Naupoto, who also question whether the current constitutional framework can effectively unify the Fijian populace. The need for a more inclusive approach to constitutional amendments is increasingly emphasized as a way to promote effective governance.
The ongoing discussions regarding the Constitution signify a vibrant democratic process, with stakeholders highlighting the necessity for open dialogue to achieve national unity. As Fiji navigates its path forward, there is optimism that these discussions will pave the way for constitutional reforms that genuinely encompass the voices of its citizens.
Acknowledging these issues and advocating for dialogue represents a crucial step towards resolving long-standing concerns and fostering a more cohesive national identity in Fiji.
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