Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka emphasized the historic importance of the parliamentary debate surrounding the Bill to amend Fiji’s Constitution, asserting that the results will have a profound impact on the nation’s democracy, land ownership laws, and the everyday lives of citizens. Speaking in Parliament, Rabuka categorized the Bill as a moral and democratic imperative, asserting, “The Constitution is the supreme law of our land, the foundation upon which our democracy stands.”
He raised concerns regarding the existing 2013 Constitution, arguing that it was not formulated or adopted through a participatory process that genuinely reflected the will of the people. He expressed that the existing framework lacks legitimacy since it wasn’t endorsed through a public mandate.
The debate’s outcome is set to play a pivotal role in the future governance framework of Fiji. However, the proposed Constitution (Amendment) Act 2025 has already been defeated in Parliament during its second reading on March 11, 2025, as it failed to meet requirements stipulated under Section 160(2)(b) of the Constitution and the relevant Standing Orders.
This outcome halts the government’s attempts to amend the 2013 Constitution, which Rabuka has previously criticized for its undemocratic roots. The discussions leading to the vote were framed as a critical juncture for establishing the future trajectory of Fiji’s governance structure.
Despite the setback, this moment highlights the ongoing dialogue surrounding constitutional reform and could serve as a foundation for future changes that embrace inclusivity and democratic representation in Fiji’s governance. The government’s ongoing commitment to addressing the limitations of the current constitutional framework offers a glimmer of hope for building a more engaging and representative political landscape that truly reflects the aspirations and rights of the Fijian populace. By continuing to advocate for public participation and civic dialogue, there is potential for the government to eventually realize a framework that empowers all citizens.
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