Attorney-General Graham Leung has emphasized the significance of amending the 2013 Constitution as a key agenda item in the current session of Parliament. During his address, Leung acknowledged widespread concerns regarding the stringent amendment process specified in Chapter 11 of the Constitution, asserting that it is crucial for the legal framework to evolve alongside the people’s aspirations.
Leung articulated that a constitution should reflect collective wisdom and should not be an imposition. “An imposed Constitution lacks legitimacy,” he stated, underscoring his belief that meaningful constitutional reform must involve citizen engagement. He encouraged open discussions and the potential for adjustments to what he described as Fiji’s “Supreme Law”, noting that change is vital for the maturation of Fiji’s democracy.
The Attorney-General drew comparisons with other nations, highlighting that the USA Constitution has undergone 27 amendments since its adoption in 1788, and India’s Constitution has seen 106 amendments since 1950. This context lends weight to the argument that adaptability is essential for constitutional relevance.
In January of this year, the Cabinet had already approved measures to review the Constitution, and a Bill regarding amendments to Chapter 11 is set to be presented in Parliament, intending to address the previous criticisms surrounding the Constitution’s legitimacy and contents. As part of this initiative, a Constitution Review Commission (CRC) is anticipated to engage citizens in discussions about these potential amendments.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka had previously noted that calls for constitutional review were highlighted during the 2022 elections across various political campaigns. With the government advancing toward a busy legislative agenda, particularly with the general election anticipated in 2026, the process reflects a pivotal moment for Fijian governance.
Overall, this movement towards amending the Constitution signals a commitment to developing a more participatory and transparent governance framework, possibly fostering greater unity and responsive leadership within the nation. The government’s willingness to adapt and reflect people’s needs in the Constitution could herald a more inclusive democratic future in Fiji.
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