Acting Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad has asserted that the 2013 Constitution of Fiji was imposed illegally by the previous Bainimarama government and does not reflect the will of the Fijian people. He made these remarks during a breakfast meeting organized by the Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation and expressed that the Constitution has faced significant criticism regarding both its adoption process and its content.
Professor Prasad pointed out that the Bainimarama government failed to adhere to its own Decrees 57 and 58 of 2012, which outlined a more democratic procedure for formulating a Constitution, including the involvement of a Constituent Assembly. He emphasized the importance of public input in the ongoing review of the Constitution, affirming that the government is not looking to impose its agenda but rather to facilitate a platform for widespread public engagement.
In line with this objective, Professor Prasad stated, “We want to come up with a Constitution which everyone has had the opportunity to have a say on.” He believes that reviewing the Constitution, alongside initiatives such as the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, could reset the groundwork for social, economic, and political progress in Fiji.
This initiative aligns with previous commitments made by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who has similarly called for constitutional reform to ensure that governance reflects the interests of all communities and upholds democratic values. Rabuka’s government proposes forming a Constitution Review Commission (CRC) to ensure comprehensive public consultations, a significant step following the criticism surrounding the Constitution’s legitimacy and effectiveness since its implementation.
Such initiatives are crucial as they not only address the long-standing grievances associated with the 2013 Constitution but also aim to enhance citizen participation in the democratic process. Engaging the public in discussions about the Constitution can rebuild trust and create a legal framework that genuinely serves the people of Fiji.
In summary, the review of the 2013 Constitution represents a hopeful opportunity for meaningful reform, fostering greater citizen engagement and contributing to a more inclusive and equitable future for all Fijians. This collaborative approach underlines a commitment to democracy and transparency, addressing past injustices while paving the way for national unity and progress.
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