Fiji’s Political Discord: Can Bipartisanship Revive Constitutional Reform?

A recent meeting among Fijian leaders has underscored the continuing tensions related to proposed constitutional amendments, with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka expressing disappointment at the lack of bipartisan dialogue. During his appearance on “A Conversation with the Prime Minister,” Rabuka revealed that discussions, which were intended to foster cooperation, ultimately devolved into confrontational exchanges prior to the introduction of the Constitution Amendment Bill 2025.

Prime Minister Rabuka stressed the government’s dedication to engaging various factions, stating, “Not only the ‘Group of Nine’ – all government members, even I – had spoken to some members of the Opposition.” He noted that the Leader of Opposition, Inia Seruiratu, had reached out just a day before the bill’s First Reading to request a meeting aimed at fostering bipartisan dialogue on pressing national issues.

During a “Leaders’ Lunch and Meeting” aimed at promoting bipartisanship, Rabuka expressed regret that discussions became contentious, straying from the collaborative approach initially agreed upon. The current discord reflects ongoing challenges in Fiji’s political landscape, particularly concerning amendments to the 2013 Constitution.

The Prime Minister has consistently advocated for inclusive dialogue, emphasizing the necessity for a Constitution that accurately reflects the voices and aspirations of the Fijian populace. He has previously remarked, “With the cooperation of the opposition, I’m sure we can go through those bills that we have planned to be presented in the House.”

Amidst criticism from opposition members concerning the transparency of proposed amendments, constitutional law experts have reiterated the importance of extensive public consultation and cooperation. This call for collective engagement is seen as crucial to ensure that any possible changes align with the diverse needs of Fiji’s citizens.

Despite these challenges, the ongoing discussions among leaders suggest a potential path forward. Emphasizing collaborative governance may facilitate essential constitutional reforms, fostering trust and enhancing democratic processes in Fiji. If genuine efforts toward bipartisanship continue, there remains optimism for a unified approach that advances Fiji’s interests and aligns legislative developments with the collective aspirations of its people.