Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has emphasized the importance of having an open discussion regarding the events surrounding the coups of 1987, 2000, and 2006 before any amendments are made to the 2013 Constitution.
He stated, “We need to know what really happened, and who was behind all of these events that shook Fiji and pushed us backwards on the development path.”
Seruiratu believes that such dialogue is essential for establishing transparency and reconciliation, which is necessary to address the root causes of past issues.
He pointed out that a recent presentation by Professor Anthony James Regan, a constitutional expert from the Australian National University, during the Fiji National University’s Vice-Chancellor’s Leadership Seminar Series, has sparked significant support for a comprehensive review of Fiji’s 2013 Constitution.
Following Prof Regan’s remarks, fellow Opposition Member Viliame Naupoto also reiterated the call for a constitutional review in Parliament.
Seruiratu highlighted that a new constitution should enhance the principle of popular sovereignty, which asserts that the people are the ultimate source of power and should have a more significant role in the governance process.