The review of the 2013 Constitution has been approved as part of the recently unveiled 2025-2029 National Development Plan (NDP). This announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica.
The NDP emphasizes the importance of enhancing the regulatory and legal framework, along with improving collaboration among law and order agencies to ensure the safety, security, and wellbeing of all Fijians. Key initiatives included in the plan are:
– The review of the 2013 Constitution of the Republic of Fiji.
– Promotion of the rule of law at both regional and international levels to guarantee equal access to justice.
– Evaluation of all legislation concerning law enforcement agencies to boost transparency and efficiency.
– Assurance of separation and independence among the three branches of government: the Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary.
– Enhancement of the capabilities and expertise of the Office of the Attorney-General, which includes the legislative drafting division, the Law Reform Commission, and the Fiji Intellectual Property Office.
– Elimination of unfair discrimination and the prevention of the arbitrary misuse of broad discretionary powers within laws.
– Implementation of safeguards to prevent abuses of discretionary authority and the removal of clauses that restrict judicial review of administrative powers held by Ministers and other public officials.
– A comprehensive review of constitutional procedures, with amendments sought to reinforce the independence of essential institutions, including judicial commissions, the Fijian Elections Office, the Reserve Bank of Fiji, and other fiduciary bodies.
– Deployment of the Fiji Protective Security Framework to protect institutions.
– Improvement of coordination among security and rehabilitation agencies.
– Ensuring public access to information and safeguarding fundamental freedoms in line with national legislation and international agreements, along with the provision of sufficient human resources within institutions.