Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, has highlighted the unique challenge facing the nation’s Constitution, noting that it requires a 75 percent majority to be amended. This high bar, he argues, hampers Fiji’s young democracy and suggests that the current Constitution should evolve to better reflect the voices of its citizens.
Gavoka pointed out that the Constitution was crafted by a limited group, leading to a situation where some believe it could be attributed to a single individual. He emphasized the need for broader community involvement in constitutional matters, stating, “The voices of the people need to be heard.” Reflecting on historical submissions regarding constitutional reform, he articulated a desire for a more collaborative approach to governance.
This call for change aligns with ongoing discussions in Parliament about the feasibility and legitimacy of the current constitutional framework, which has been criticized for being too difficult to amend. Attorney-General Graham Leung previously noted that the path to constitutional changes is incredibly complex, requiring both parliamentary and public approval at unprecedented levels.
Additionally, recent sentiments echoed by other officials, like Filimoni Vosarogo, the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, suggest a growing political consensus that the Constitution should be a product of collective input rather than a decree from a small elite circle. This reinforces a hopeful trajectory towards a governance model that aims to unite a diverse population under a legal framework that genuinely reflects their aspirations.
Despite encountering obstacles in garnering the necessary support for change, the current discussions around the Constitution indicate a vested interest in reforming the system to ensure it meets contemporary needs and facilitates greater democratic engagement. As Fiji navigates these critical issues, there is optimism that ongoing dialogues will lead to a more inclusive and responsive governance structure that resonates with all Fijians.
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