The Fijian government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing its legislative reform agenda while simultaneously seeking guidance from the Supreme Court on specific clauses within the 2013 Constitution. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka confirmed that the government’s plan to engage with the Supreme Court will not hinder its legislative progress, emphasizing that the Coalition Government remains focused on implementing essential reforms.
During a recent interview, Rabuka stated, “The Cabinet reference to the Supreme Court will not affect Government’s legislative agenda or governance reforms,” asserting that significant bills, including the Code of Conduct Bill, the Access to Information Bill, and the Accountability and Transparency Bill, will be presented for a second reading in Parliament soon.
The government is also pursuing legal clarification regarding sections 159 and 160 of the Constitution, which are known as the “super majority” clauses. These provisions require an overwhelming consensus of three-quarters of both Members of Parliament and registered voters before any constitutional amendments can be enacted. Legal experts are collaborating with state lawyers to prepare the questions that will be presented to the Supreme Court.
This initiative to seek the Supreme Court’s opinion closely follows earlier discussions in which Rabuka and Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica highlighted the fundamental challenges posed by the current constitutional framework, particularly around the process of amending it. Both officials recognize that the existing structure can obstruct necessary governance reforms.
Reflecting on the previous government’s inaction in these areas, Rabuka expressed optimism about the current government’s commitment to enacting overdue reforms and fostering a governance framework that better serves all Fijians. The ongoing dialogue about these constitutional issues signals a hopeful path forward for greater inclusivity and representation in governance.
As Fiji grapples with these complex challenges, the government’s dedication to engaging various stakeholders suggests a commitment to creating a more unified and democratic framework that aligns with the aspirations of its diverse population. The potential for constructive change presents an encouraging outlook for the future political landscape in Fiji.
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