Lal: Amendment denies Fijians their right to decide

Listen to this article:

Ketan Lal at Parliament in Suva on March 13. Picture: ELIKI NUKUTABU

Opposition MP Ketan Lal believes attempts to amend the 2013 Constitution was an attack on our democracy.

Contributing to the debate in Parliament on Friday, he said constitutional amendments were not just a small change to the laws.

“It takes power away from the people and gives it to politicians,” Mr Lal said.

“It denies Fijians their right to decide what happens to their country. Who are we, as leaders, to take that right away from them?

“Let me make this clear, this is not just an administrative update. It is a serious change that moves power from the people to those in Parliament.

“The people of Fiji should not wake up one day to find their constitution changed without their consent.”

Mr Lal said a constitution was not a tool for those in power to adjust it whenever they want.

“The Constitution belongs to the people, not the politicians.

“Right now, any big change to our Constitution must go through a referendum. This means the people get to decide.”

“A constitution is not just a set of rules — it is the foundation of our nation. It protects our freedoms and guides our government.

“Yet, this amendment says the people should no longer have a say in shaping this foundation.

“Imagine electing a government today, only to find that tomorrow, they have taken away your right to hold them accountable.”