Fiji’s President, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalu, emphasized the critical importance of public participation in the constitutional review process during his address at the Attorney-General’s Conference in Nadi. He underscored that citizens must be involved at every stage, from drafting terms to appointing members of the Constitutional Review Commission and creating consultation documents through public hearings.
Ratu Naiqama insisted that the draft laws or bills should be accessible to the public for feedback prior to their presentation in Parliament. He stated, “This should be socialised to all levels of society, in all communities, before it reaches parliament,” stressing that neglecting this process for convenience or financial reasons would undermine the people’s connection and ownership of the new constitution.
Highlighting the significance of native land ownership, he noted that 91 percent of land in Fiji belongs to native landowners, suggesting that true sovereignty resides with the citizens. This principle ties into the government’s approach to national development. To this end, the Law Reform Commission is reviewing Fiji’s electoral laws, with a focus on conducting extensive public consultations.
Ratu Naiqama articulated the importance of these consultations, which allow citizens, civil society members, political leaders, and experts to contribute their perspectives on the electoral system. He believes that when citizens engage in the process, it not only fosters trust in the electoral system but also bolsters transparency and political stability.
The President called attention to the historical requirement for the government to present draft laws to the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) and expressed uncertainty regarding the current legal provisions surrounding this advisory group following its review in 2023. He urged the Attorney-General to ensure that the GCC is included in the consultations, especially with significant legislation, like the recently tabled Indigenous Rights Bill.
Ratu Naiqama concluded with a stern warning that any constitutional or legal barriers preventing public consultation before bills reach Parliament are undemocratic and detrimental, as they can lead to ineffective legislation that negatively impacts the people of Fiji. His remarks highlight the ongoing commitment to making the legal process more inclusive and transparent, ensuring a government that truly reflects the will and needs of its citizens.
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