Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that the Fijian Cabinet is considering seeking the Supreme Court’s opinion regarding potential amendments to the 2013 Constitution. Rabuka highlighted that these discussions are still in a preliminary phase, as the specific questions to be posed to the Court must be finalized in an upcoming Cabinet meeting.
During a press briefing, the Prime Minister expressed concern over the existing constitutional constraints, stating that the current framework poses significant challenges for the government in making necessary amendments. He criticized the barriers established by those no longer in Parliament or deceased, arguing that these limitations make the amendment process exceedingly difficult.
Rabuka emphasized the necessity of adhering to the Supreme Court’s scheduled procedures, indicating that the government will not force the Judiciary to meet outside of its intended timeline. This approach reflects the government’s commitment to respect the legal framework while ensuring that the constitutional revision process is conducted appropriately.
The Prime Minister’s statements resonate with previous concerns raised about the difficulty of amending the Constitution. Earlier attempts to lower the amendment threshold in Parliament were unsuccessful, illustrating the challenges the government faces in this endeavor. Rabuka reiterated the government’s belief in the importance of a Constitution that represents the diverse populations of Fiji, advocating for a more inclusive governance structure.
Rabuka’s commitment to constitutional reform reflects a broader aspiration for a political environment that genuinely represents all Fijians. While challenges remain, the focus on engaging various stakeholders suggests a hopeful pathway toward a more unified and democratic governance framework that captures the voices and rights of the citizens of Fiji.
Leave a comment