Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica recently stated that while the Opposition may have temporarily prevailed in defeating the Constitution Amendment Bill during a parliamentary session, he sees this as just the beginning of a long battle to amend what he describes as a “one man conceived document.” He expressed a firm intention to seek change to the 2013 Constitution, which has faced criticism for not reflecting the will of the Fijian people due to its adoption process following the military coup in 2006.
Kamikamica’s conviction has reportedly intensified in light of the recent parliamentary defeat, where the Amendment Bill fell short of the required 75 percent majority, garnering only 40 votes in favor against 14 opposed, and with one abstention. Speaker of Parliament Filimone Jitoko confirmed that the necessary threshold of 41 votes was not reached, halting the bill in its tracks.
Turning to the judiciary, Kamikamica indicated plans to take the matter to the Supreme Court, bringing into question the validity of the 1997 Constitution as a potential framework for future governance. He emphasized that the push for constitutional reform is essential for fostering unity in Fiji, underlying that any hope for collaboration among the diverse populace must originate from a thorough review of the current constitution.
Echoing Kamikamica’s sentiments, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has long argued that a new constitutional framework is necessary to address the concentration of power within the executive branch. This view has been a central theme in Rabuka’s government since he took office, as he has called for greater public engagement in creating a constitution that truly represents the aspirations and rights of all Fijians.
Overall, the developments surrounding the Amendment Bill highlight the ongoing discourse regarding constitutional reform in Fiji and reflect a commitment to fostering inclusivity and representation in governance. Despite the setback in Parliament, there exists a hope that continued dialogue can pave the way for a constitution that resonates with the values and needs of the Fijian people, ultimately strengthening democratic principles in the nation.
The call for reform presents an optimistic view of Fiji’s future political landscape, where all voices are encouraged to participate in shaping a governance structure that can unify rather than divide.
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