Former Social Democratic Liberal Party MP Tanya Waqanika has expressed her strong support for Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s initiative to bolster his parliamentary backing as he aims to amend the 2013 Constitution. In her conversation with FijiLive, she commended the Prime Minister’s political acumen, stating, “He knows what he is doing. He is politically savvy, and if they need to get the numbers to change the Constitution, so be it.”

In a recent media briefing, Prime Minister Rabuka revealed that his Coalition Government currently holds around 70 percent of the 55 votes in Parliament, equivalent to 38 seats. However, he acknowledged that they still require four more votes to achieve the necessary three-quarters majority of 42 votes for constitutional amendments, as the opposition retains 16 votes.

Rabuka emphasized the importance of reviewing and amending the Constitution to ensure it aligns with democratic principles and reflects Fiji’s diverse and multicultural society. He reiterated his commitment to promoting dialogue and building consensus among various communities, with the goal of achieving broader representation and inclusivity.

Waqanika’s backing of Rabuka’s efforts is seen as a positive development for his coalition government, indicating potential for greater unity and collaboration within Fiji’s political landscape. Their collective approaches may lead to a more inclusive governance structure that effectively addresses the diverse aspirations of all Fijians.

While significant challenges remain in the amendment process, the proactive steps by leaders like Rabuka and Waqanika offer hope for a future that fosters unity and progress. Their commitment to dialogue and inclusive governance may pave the way for a more representative and harmonious political environment, ultimately benefiting all citizens of Fiji.