In a significant parliamentary development, four opposition Members of Parliament in Fiji—Shalen Kumar, Sachida Nand, Rinesh Sharma, and Sanjay Kirpal—have decided to support the government’s initiative to amend the 2013 Constitution. Their primary agenda is to empower the people to influence the amendments, emphasizing the importance of public consultation in the constitutional reform process.
During a recent session, the MPs voted in favor of suspending certain standing orders to allow for the first reading of the amendment bill, proposed by the government. MP Shalen Kumar highlighted the need for the public to voice their opinions on the amendments, stating, “Let’s take this to the people and they decide the things they want to be part of the Constitution.” He remarked that constitutional amendments are common in various political landscapes and that only specific provisions require change while retaining the Constitution’s fundamental principles.
Similarly, MP Sachida Nand echoed the sentiment that the current Constitution seems rigid and must adapt to reflect the people’s rights and needs. He cited examples from countries like the U.S. and India, where constitutional amendments have been made for the greater good, advocating for a participatory approach to governance.
Rinesh Sharma pointed out the potential need for altering about “5 to 10 percent” of the Constitution to address the balance of power among governing bodies, particularly the concentration of powers within certain executive roles. He stressed the importance of maintaining a separation of powers in safeguarding democracy, illustrating these concerns with past experiences related to the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC).
MP Sanjay Kirpal expressed his commitment to bringing the bill for public discussion, emphasizing that it is crucial for the people to understand what changes might affect them. The MPs collectively argue that for the governance framework to be truly representative, it must resonate with the diverse voices of all citizens in Fiji.
This discourse aligns with previous comments made by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who has been advocating for constitutional reforms that reflect contemporary governance needs. Despite significant parliamentary support, the government still lacks the majority required to pass the amendments, necessitating continued dialogue and collaboration.
This ongoing initiative for constitutional reform presents a hopeful opportunity to enhance democratic values and inclusivity in Fiji. By fostering an environment where civic engagement is prioritized, it is possible to create a framework that embodies the collective aspirations of the Fijian populace, ultimately strengthening the nation’s governance and unity.
Leave a comment