Opposition Member of Parliament Rinesh Sharma has articulated his firm opposition to the recent attempt by the government to amend the 2013 Constitution of Fiji, successfully blocking the bill in Parliament. Sharma emphasized that his initial vote was in favor of dialogue and debate regarding the amendments, but he later voted against the bill, highlighting the significance of democratic values in the political context of Fiji.
The government aimed to secure 41 votes for the bill to pass but fell short with only 40 in approval. Sharma noted that his decision stemmed from a commitment to protecting the foundational principles of the Constitution amidst the spread of misleading narratives about his intentions.
Despite the government’s prerogative to seek judicial intervention regarding the vote outcome, Sharma expressed his desire to be actively involved in ensuring that the Constitution’s integrity is upheld. He categorically opposed the government’s plan to avoid a nationwide referendum, arguing that any substantial changes to the Constitution should reflect the will of the Fijian populace, as sovereignty lies with the citizens.
Sharma urged Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to foster an inclusive amendment process that fully engages citizens and stakeholders in understanding the proposed changes. By advocating for a referendum, he underscored the critical democratic principle that citizens deserve to have a voice in significant decisions affecting their governance.
Throughout the debate, Sharma remained resolute in defending both the Constitution and the essence of democracy in Fiji, despite encountering false narratives and threats on social media. He called for the government to enhance dialogue and public discourse, stressing that electoral victories should not overshadow the core goal of prosperity for all Fijians.
The parliamentary discussions surrounding the Constitution Amendment Bill reflect broader themes of governance and inclusivity, as many lawmakers echo Sharma’s call for transparency and public involvement in constitutional matters. This ongoing dialogue opens pathways for potential reforms aimed at creating a more representative governance framework that resonates with the aspirations of all Fijians, fostering a hopeful outlook for the future.
Overall, while political tensions remain, the commitment to uphold democratic principles and engage the populace signifies a promising opportunity for meaningful change in Fiji’s political landscape.
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