Ratu Jo Dimuri, vice president of the People’s Alliance Party (PAP), has reaffirmed the importance of amending the 2013 Constitution in light of a recent setback in Parliament where a proposed amendment was rejected. He expressed disappointment over this outcome, noting that although the Coalition Government had sufficient votes, the last-minute withdrawal of support from one opposition member hindered the amendment’s success.
Ratu Jo emphasized that the proposed changes are a cornerstone of the coalition’s manifesto for their first term. He specifically pointed out provisions concerning the rights of indigenous communities, which he believes have been eroded compared to what was offered in the 1997 Constitution.
He acknowledged that clearer communication regarding the intended changes might have garnered the necessary votes. Nevertheless, Ratu Jo remains optimistic about the potential for reform, indicating that legal experts in the party are exploring other avenues, including the possibility of bringing the matter before the Supreme Court.
This call for constitutional reform aligns with the views of other prominent leaders within the government, such as Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica. They both urge for amendments to the 2013 Constitution, contending that it fails to represent the will of the Fijian people effectively and advocating for a more inclusive governance process.
Despite the recent parliamentary defeat, there is a renewed call for dialogue among political factions in Fiji, which could lead to a more inclusive constitutional process that truly reflects the diverse aspirations of its citizens. The commitment from political leaders to pursue constitutional reform provides a hopeful outlook for the governance of Fiji.
The ongoing discussions regarding constitutional revisions highlight an essential engagement with the democratic process, fostering unity and ensuring representation for all Fijians. While challenges abound, the collective desire for reform underscores a positive trajectory towards addressing community needs and rights.
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