Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has praised the National Federation Party (NFP) as Fiji’s longest-standing political party, emphasizing its resilience and commitment to the nation. During the NFP Annual Convention, he noted that the party, with a history spanning 61 years, has significantly influenced the country’s development, starting from the pre-independence period under the guidance of the late A.D. Patel at the Constitutional Conference in the UK, to its representation in the Legislative Council in the 1960s, and now serving in the Coalition Government that he leads.
Rabuka expressed his trust in the NFP, particularly emphasizing the leadership of Professor Biman Prasad. He remarked on the significance of the Coalition Government, stating it is the first to lead Fiji for over a year. He acknowledged that, like any family, coalitions may face challenges, but it’s the focus and determination that set experienced leaders apart.
The Prime Minister reflected on his connection to the NFP, which was strengthened by his friendship with the late Party Leader, Justice Jai Ram Reddy, who passed away in August 2022. Rabuka recalled their collaboration on the 1997 Constitution, which he described as a historic moment for Fiji, culminating in its unanimous enactment in Parliament following Justice Reddy’s impactful address to the Great Council of Chiefs. He underscored that the 1997 Constitution was globally recognized for its emphasis on perseverance and consensus.
Rabuka lamented the abrogation of the 1997 Constitution on April 10, 2009, just hours after the Fiji Court of Appeal mandated the restoration of democracy. He contrasted it with the 2013 Constitution, which he criticized for its regressive limitations on human rights compared to its predecessor’s progressive Bill of Rights.
He highlighted the protections for group rights in the 1997 Constitution, including those for i-Taukei landowners and Indo-Fijian tenants, and noted its effort to de-politicize key independent institutions. Rabuka also referred to comments made by former Chief Justice Anthony Gates in 2018, which pointed out the shortcomings of the 2013 Constitution’s single national constituency system that deprives people of direct access to their elected representatives. He concluded by advocating for a re-evaluation of the 2013 Constitution.