The recent attempts to amend Fiji’s Constitution faced a significant setback as the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2025 was defeated in Parliament. Attorney-General Graham Leung announced that the government will reassess its strategies after the Bill failed to secure the necessary 41 votes, required as a three-quarters majority. The final tally showed 40 votes in favor, 14 against, and one member abstaining, underscoring a narrow defeat.
Speaker of Parliament Filimone Jitoko confirmed that the Bill’s lack of support means it will not proceed, emphasizing the strict requirement for a supermajority outlined in the parliamentary rules. Following the outcome, Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga expressed disappointment, stating, “We are disappointed because they can’t see the way forward. We are not going outside of the constitution; we are complying with it.”
The government has indicated it may seek clarification from the Supreme Court amid discussions on constitutional reform, a route previously highlighted by Leung. He expressed that there is a legal pathway for the cabinet to seek advisory opinions as they explore the possible amendments to address issues, including the concentration of power and the democratic integrity of the electoral process.
Simultaneously, Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica and other leaders within the coalition government conveyed a renewed commitment to constitutional reform, viewing this moment as a pivotal opportunity to engage with citizens and encourage a more inclusive governance framework in Fiji. Kamikamica emphasized that while the Opposition may have temporarily blocked the Bill, the government will continue its pursuit of constitutional changes that reflect the people’s will.
This legislative development reflects an ongoing discourse around Fiji’s constitutional landscape, highlighting the importance of civic engagement and a commitment to democracy. The continued dialogue among political factions illustrates a hopeful trajectory toward a constitutional framework that serves all Fijians better, potentially uniting diverse perspectives and fostering a governance structure that can adapt to the evolving aspirations of the population.
In essence, while this defeat is a pause in the legislative process, the government remains steadfast in its mission to revive discussions and seek further avenues for reform, indicating a hopeful outlook for the future of Fiji’s constitutional governance.
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