Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that his government has submitted an appeal to the Supreme Court regarding potential constitutional actions, specifically concerning the 2013 Constitution. This submission includes various possible remedies, including the removal of the 2013 Constitution in favor of the reinstatement of the 1997 Constitution. During a recent press briefing, Rabuka clarified that the court’s decision will be pivotal, as it might either amend the current constitution, discard it, or explore other alternatives.
Rabuka acknowledged that if the court were to order the reestablishment of the 1997 Constitution, it could inevitably delay the forthcoming elections, since new election laws would need to be enacted to align with the old constitution. Practical considerations, including the timing of elections, are part of the ongoing discussions within the government. Rabuka emphasized that the situation requires careful thought about alternative arrangements should such changes occur.
His statements reflect previous concerns raised about the difficulty of amending the current constitution, a challenge that has been echoed in the government’s earlier discussions aiming to make the constitutional amendment process more accessible. The Prime Minister expressed hope that the Supreme Court will rule in a way that serves the best interests of the Fijian populace, indicating that the legal process could lead to a more inclusive governance framework.
The government is being careful about making further comments until the court delivers its decision, which is anticipated on September 5. The Supreme Court’s ruling is expected to have a significant impact on the future electoral processes, as multiple political parties and civil society groups are involved in the discourse surrounding the constitutional framework.
This ongoing dialogue suggests a hopeful outlook for greater representation and inclusivity in Fiji’s governance, aiming to foster a political atmosphere that better aligns with the aspirations of all citizens. The Supreme Court’s engagement in this matter highlights a proactive approach to addressing important constitutional questions, paving the way for reforms that could strengthen Fijian democracy.
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