Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has voiced his disappointment over the defeat of the Constitution Amendment Bill 2025, describing it as a “great loss” that has deprived the people of Fiji of the chance to shape their supreme law. He emphasized that the failure of the bill is indicative of the Coalition and the Group of Eleven’s earnestness in seeking parliamentary support for constitutional change. According to Rabuka, this outcome goes beyond a mere political setback; it is a testament to the Coalition’s commitment to truly represent Fijian voices.
In light of this defeat, Rabuka has brushed off assertions that the result signifies a lack of confidence in his leadership, clarifying that the vote merely reflects the views of those opposed to the bill. He remains hopeful and is already planning subsequent actions, suggesting an avenue for further dialogue to refine and potentially reintroduce the amendment in the future.
This setback echoes prior challenges faced by Rabuka’s government in the quest for constitutional reform, reminiscent of difficulties experienced during previous legislative initiatives. The voting outcome was notably close, with 40 Members of Parliament supporting the bill while 14 opposed it, underscoring the contentious nature of the ongoing political discourse.
Looking ahead, Rabuka recognized the importance of engaging more with opposition voices. He asserted that his administration had genuinely sought to promote bipartisanship on this critical matter and initially felt optimistic about gaining support from some opposition members during negotiations. However, he expressed disappointment at feeling misled by their lack of sincerity.
Fiji is demonstrating resilience in its political journey, with the ongoing discussions surrounding constitutional reform considered vital for establishing a governance framework that reflects the aspirations of all its citizens. The government is dedicated to promoting inclusion and accountability, reflecting a constructive outlook for Fiji’s political future. By nurturing a collaborative environment, there is potential for meaningful advancements in governance that cater to the diverse needs of the Fijian people.
This illustrates a hopeful vision for Fijian democracy, where continued dialogue and collaboration could pave the way for reforms that resonate with the populace’s desires and rights.
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