Opposition Member of Parliament Sanjay Kirpal has publicly declared his intention to oppose the Coalition Government’s proposed Constitution (Amendment) Bill, emphasizing the crucial role of public representation in any constitutional amendments. In a recent interview, Kirpal expressed his concerns that the Bill threatens essential principles vital for safeguarding citizens’ rights and freedoms.
Kirpal firmly stated that the Constitution should embody the foundation of democracy, ensuring protection for citizen rights. He criticized the draft amendments for not undergoing a rigorous and transparent review process, which he believes is essential to genuinely represent the interests of the public. Of particular concern is the proposed reduction of the parliamentary threshold for constitutional amendments from 75% to a two-thirds majority, coupled with the elimination of a referendum requirement. Kirpal warns that such changes may mute public engagement in critical constitutional matters, undermining trust and potentially leading to economic instability due to decreased investor confidence.
He underscored the importance of maintaining transparency and accountability in government actions, advocating for a comprehensive evaluation of the amendment proposal. Kirpal’s insistence on an open dialogue with the public aims to ensure any constitutional reform serves the best interests of citizens. He reaffirmed the need for a Constitution that adheres to international human rights standards and reflects democratic values.
Kirpal’s viewpoints coincide with earlier concerns voiced by fellow opposition MPs, such as Ketan Lal and Rinesh Sharma. Lal cautioned that these amendments could lead to a dangerous concentration of power away from the citizens, while Sharma emphasized the need for meticulous consideration of any potential changes.
The ongoing discussions surrounding constitutional reform in Fiji highlight the imperative for inclusivity and transparency in governance. As these dialogues advance, there is hope that they might nurture a stronger bond between citizens and their elected officials, paving the way for a governance framework that resonates with the diverse needs of the Fijian populace.
There remains an optimistic outlook that continued public scrutiny and involvement may guide constitutional reforms toward enhancing democratic ideals and safeguarding the rights of all Fijians.
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