Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has praised the National Federation Party (NFP) as Fiji’s longest-running political party, highlighting its resilience and commitment to the citizens of Fiji. During the NFP Annual Convention, Rabuka acknowledged the party’s significant contributions over its 61-year history, which includes its inception during the pre-independence period with the late A.D. Patel’s leadership at the Constitutional Conference in the UK, its representation in the Legislative Council during the 1960s, and its current role in the Coalition Government under his leadership.
Rabuka expressed his trust and confidence in the NFP, particularly through its leader, Professor Biman Prasad. He emphasized the importance of the Coalition Government, which has now been in power for over a year, remarking that coalitions, like families, will face challenges. However, it is the focus and determination of the leaders that set them apart.
Additionally, Rabuka reflected on his strong bond with the late Party Leader, Mr. Justice Jai Ram Reddy, who passed away in August 2022. He noted that their collaboration on the 1997 Constitution was a significant moment in Fijian history, culminating in its unanimous enactment in Parliament after Justice Reddy’s noteworthy address to the Great Council of Chiefs. This constitution was celebrated globally for its emphasis on perseverance, dialogue, and consensus.
However, Rabuka lamented the abrogation of this constitution on April 10, 2009, soon after a ruling stated that democracy must be reinstated. He contrasted the 1997 Constitution’s progressive Bill of Rights, which safeguarded fundamental rights and group rights, with the 2013 Constitution, which he claims imposes regressive limitations on human rights.
He further noted the assertion by former Chief Justice Anthony Gates in 2018 that the single national constituency under the 2013 Constitution hinders people’s access to their elected representatives. Consequently, Rabuka advocated for a reevaluation of the 2013 Constitution.