Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that his government is currently four votes short of the three-quarters majority required to amend the 2013 Constitution. With about 70 percent support from the 55 members of Parliament, the path to constitution reform remains complex but necessary.

During a media briefing, Rabuka emphasized the importance of the Constitution in defining state powers and safeguarding the fundamental rights of citizens. Drawing on his previous experience as Leader of the Opposition, he highlighted the significant role of accountability in governance and the necessity of presenting alternative policies by the opposition.

The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to reviewing and amending the Constitution in line with democratic principles and good governance. He stressed the need for a constitutional framework that reflects Fiji’s diverse and multicultural landscape, calling for dialogue and consensus-building among various communities to ensure inclusivity and representation.

Despite the challenges in securing the needed votes, Rabuka holds an optimistic view of the situation, regarding the current hurdles as opportunities for meaningful engagement with all stakeholders. His vision aims to establish a Constitution that truly embodies the aspirations of the Fijian people and fosters unity among the diverse groups within the nation.

In summary, while Prime Minister Rabuka faces difficult circumstances in amending the Constitution, his dedication to fostering dialogue and promoting inclusivity signals a hopeful direction for Fiji’s governance. Through ongoing support for democratic principles and civic participation, there is potential for a brighter future as the nation works to uphold freedom and unity for all citizens.