The paramount chief of the Burebasaga Confederacy, Ro Teimumu Kepa, has called for a revision of Fiji’s 2013 Constitution, asserting that it was imposed without public input following the 2006 coup. She expressed her disappointment that the constitution, which she believes does not represent the interests of the Fijian people, lacks proper consultation from its inception. Ro Teimumu stated, “None of us had any say in it,” reflecting on her own experience after entering Parliament in 2014, when the constitution was already in place.
Her concerns extend to specific provisions within the constitution, such as the extensive powers granted to the Attorney-General and the immunity provided to certain officials involved in past political events, questioning the necessity of such safeguards if the actions of those individuals were believed to be justified. Ro Teimumu warned that failing to address these constitutional issues could lead to growing discontent among the populace, urging Fijians to advocate for amendments that would support the interests of all citizens and ensure their voices are heard.
This growing call for constitutional reform is echoed by other political leaders in Fiji. Opposition MP Sachida Nand has criticized the constitution, asserting it was crafted primarily to benefit a single individual and does not adequately reflect the aspirations of the wider population. This sentiment is shared by Adi Sivia Qoro, president of Unity Fiji, who also emphasizes that the original draft produced by the Yash Ghai Constitution Commission was ignored in favor of a version that failed to include meaningful public input.
Furthermore, Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica and Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Filimoni Vosarogo have called for a comprehensive constitutional review, citing the lack of inclusivity during its formation and the urgent need for a framework that embodies the voices of all Fijians. This echoes historical grievances about previous coups that have adversely affected Fiji’s democracy and social cohesion.
In conclusion, there is a collective hope among these leaders that initiating discussions around constitutional reform can pave the way for a more participatory and fair governance structure in Fiji. Engaging citizens in this process may not only foster unity but also promote a strengthened democratic framework that truly represents and protects the rights of the people, enhancing the future of the nation.
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