Political Turmoil: Are Fiji’s Constitutional Amendments a Distraction?

Former Attorney-General and Minister of Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has expressed his concerns regarding the Fijian Government’s initiative to amend the 2013 Constitution. He suggests that these proposed changes may be rooted in political motivations rather than genuine governance. During a media briefing, Sayed-Khaiyum criticized the government for focusing on constitutional amendments at a time when many Fijians are grappling with urgent social and economic problems, including increasing living costs and rising crime rates.

Sayed-Khaiyum highlighted that the government has not provided clear details about which specific constitutional provisions they intend to amend. He speculated that the ruling party may be acting out of political self-interest as they prepare for the upcoming elections. He remarked, “It does not fancy really its political chances in the next elections,” indicating that the amendments might be more about consolidating power than improving the lives of citizens.

This sentiment is echoed by members of the opposition, including MPs Ketan Lal and Virendra Lal, who have voiced similar concerns over the government’s intentions in pushing for these constitutional changes. They warn that such efforts could divert attention away from the real issues affecting the country, focusing instead on strengthening political control.

Amid these discussions, Sayed-Khaiyum has pointed to external economic pressures, notably the potential impact of China’s domestic consumption initiatives, which could lead to an economic downturn in Fiji. He has urged the current administration to prioritize addressing these economic challenges rather than redirecting focus to reforming the constitution.

Despite these challenges, there is hope that open dialogue and a commitment to inclusive governance could lead to prioritizing the needs of ordinary citizens. Various stakeholders are calling for transparency and genuine engagement in governance, which could pave the way for meaningful reforms that strengthen democracy and foster a closer relationship between the government and its constituents.