Support Grows for Constitutional Change in Fiji

Former Social Democratic Liberal Party MP Tanya Waqanika has expressed her unwavering support for Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s initiative to strengthen his parliamentary backing in order to amend Fiji’s 2013 Constitution. In a recent interview with FijiLive, Waqanika praised the Prime Minister’s political acumen, asserting that he is “politically savvy” and understands the imperative to gather the necessary votes for constitutional changes.

During a media briefing last week, Prime Minister Rabuka revealed that his Coalition Government currently holds nearly 70 percent of the 55 parliamentary votes, which amounts to 38 seats. However, he acknowledged the significant challenge of securing the 42 votes needed to achieve the three-quarters majority required for constitutional amendments. This highlights a critical hurdle, as the opposition currently retains 16 votes.

Rabuka emphasized that reviewing and amending the Constitution is a key objective of his administration, aiming to ensure the legal framework aligns with democratic principles and reflects Fiji’s diverse, multi-ethnic society. He is committed to promoting dialogue and consensus-building across various communities to ensure broader representation and inclusivity.

Waqanika’s endorsement signals a potential positive trajectory for the Prime Minister’s coalition government. The emphasis on fostering unity and collaboration may lead to a more inclusive governance structure that addresses the diverse aspirations of all Fijians. Despite the obstacles in amending the Constitution, both leaders convey hope that through continued dialogue and strategic engagement with stakeholders, they can achieve a governance framework that embodies the collective interests of the nation.

In summary, while significant challenges lie ahead for constitutional reform in Fiji, the proactive approach being undertaken by Prime Minister Rabuka, along with support from figures like Waqanika, provides a hopeful outlook for the future. This effort may lead to a more democratic, representative, and cohesive governance model in Fiji, resonating with the needs and aspirations of its citizens.