Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica has taken aim at Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu for what he perceives as a failure to adequately serve the people of Fiji amid ongoing discussions about amendments to the 2013 Constitution. The recent parliamentary debate concluded with the defeat of the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, with the Government falling just one vote shy of the required 75 percent majority needed for the bill to proceed.
In a press conference, Seruiratu revealed that Kamikamica had reached out to him via text messages during the parliamentary debate as it became clear that the Government was struggling to secure sufficient backing for the amendments. He expressed a desire for honest dialogue, pointing out that the messages began coming in when it was evident that the Government’s chances of obtaining the necessary votes were dwindling.
Seruiratu urged the Government to “come clean,” interpreting their attempts to lower the voting threshold as signs of desperation rather than genuine intent to collaborate. He noted that he still retains the messages, suggesting they indicated a last-ditch effort by Kamikamica and the Government to guide the discussion toward their advantage.
Kamikamica, in turn, dismissed these claims as indicative of Seruiratu’s weak leadership, suggesting that Seruiratu is still influenced by previous leaders who have stepped away from Parliament. He remarked, “The Honourable Leader of Opposition’s outbursts are a reflection on his weak leadership,” and urged him to engage thoughtfully with the proposed changes.
According to Kamikamica, his outreach to Seruiratu was sanctioned by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and aimed at ongoing discussions about constitutional amendments. He stressed the necessity for finding common ground, which he views as crucial to meeting the expectations of the Fijian populace.
This politically charged environment mirrors earlier calls from both leaders for transparency and cooperation. Seruiratu has previously accused the Government of employing misleading practices similar to bribery to sway Opposition MPs, insisting on the importance of genuine engagement with all stakeholders to ensure that any amendments resonate with the collective will of the people.
Despite the prevailing tension, there is an optimistic angle that these political exchanges could pave the way for impactful reforms. The continuous dialogue might foster a commitment to responsible governance, improve democratic practices, and ensure that the voices of all Fijians are acknowledged and valued. The current discussions present a potential opportunity for both the Government and Opposition to come together in refining the constitutional framework, ultimately serving the best interests of the citizens of Fiji.
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