Attorney-General Graham Leung has highlighted the importance of revising the 2013 Constitution as a primary focus during the current Parliament session. Addressing various concerns about the rigorous amendment process outlined in Chapter 11 of the Constitution, Leung stressed that it is essential for the legal framework to evolve with the aspirations of the Fijian people.
Leung pointed out that a constitution should embody the collective wisdom of its citizens rather than be an imposed set of rules, stating, “An imposed Constitution lacks legitimacy.” He called for engaging the populace in meaningful discussions regarding any constitutional changes, asserting that such engagement is crucial for the growth of Fiji’s democracy.
He drew parallels with international examples, noting that the Constitution of the United States has been amended 27 times since its establishment in 1788, and India’s Constitution has seen 106 amendments since 1950. These examples support his argument for the necessity of adaptability to maintain constitutional relevance.
Earlier this year, the Cabinet approved steps to review the Constitution, and a bill proposing amendments to Chapter 11 is expected to be presented in Parliament. This effort aims to address prior criticisms regarding the Constitution’s legitimacy and content. A Constitution Review Commission (CRC) is also expected to facilitate public discussions on potential amendments.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka had earlier mentioned that the call for constitutional review was a significant theme in the 2022 election campaigns across various political parties. As the government prepares for a busy legislative period leading up to the anticipated general election in 2026, this initiative represents a crucial turning point for governance in Fiji.
This commitment to amending the Constitution reflects a desire for a more participatory and transparent governance system, which could help cultivate greater unity and responsive leadership in the nation. The government’s proactive approach to ensuring that the Constitution aligns with the needs of its citizens could pave the way for a more inclusive democratic future in Fiji.
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