Attorney-General Graham Leung has articulated a possible route for amending the 2013 Constitution, suggesting that the Government may approach the Supreme Court for an advisory opinion on the constitutionality of its amendment provisions. Speaking at a media conference, Leung emphasized his belief that a constitution should be dynamic, evolving with the needs and desires of the people. “The world doesn’t stand still,” he remarked, indicating the need for adaptability in governance.
Leung recognized a growing desire among the public for constitutional change and asserted that the Government is attentively listening to these sentiments. He highlighted that 2025 is slated to be an important year leading up to the general election expected in 2026, noting that the Government faces a packed law-making agenda.
He posed the question of whether reforms should be addressed in a comprehensive manner or through incremental stages, implying that the Government may consider selectively tackling the ‘low-hanging fruit’—the changes that could be made more easily. This cautious approach reflects an understanding of the complexities involved in such reforms.
Leung cautioned against hastily making changes, explaining that the process requires extensive deliberation and a bipartisan approach, along with consultation across political lines and within civil society. He reinforced that the Constitution represents the supreme law of the country and impacts all facets of governance, hence should not be treated lightly.
Pointing to the difficulty of amending constitutions, he referenced an observation made by Professor Anthony Reagan from the Australian National University about the stringent nature of Fiji’s Constitution. Leung underscored the challenge of garnering the support of three-quarters of parliamentarians and registered voters to enact changes, likening it to a nearly impossible task.
In closing, Leung celebrated the diversity of opinions as a cornerstone of democracy and expressed his openness to differing views, fostering a constructive dialogue in civic matters.
This contemplative discourse on constitutional amendment reflects a commitment to thoughtful governance, with an emphasis on the importance of democratized processes. As discussions continue, there is hope for a productive engagement that could lead to a stronger, more relevant constitutional framework that resonates with the current aspirations of the populace.
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