Christianity would receive prominent recognition in the Preamble of Fiji’s proposed Constitution, with the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 acknowledging its historical influence on the country while also recognising the contribution of other faiths.
The Preamble begins with the people of Fiji “seeking the blessing of God who has always watched over these islands and people of this Nation.”
It specifically recalls the “conversion of indigenous inhabitants of these islands to Christianity” and acknowledges the development of Fiji through the “enduring influence of Christianity.”
The proposed wording states that Christianity contributed to Fiji’s spiritual life alongside other faiths.
The Preamble also links Fiji’s constitutional history to faith, recalling the 1874 Deed of Cession and stating that Ratu Epenisa Seru Cakobau and Fiji’s High Chiefs acted while “signifying their loyalty and devotion to God and the rule of law.”
However, the proposed Preamble also emphasises Fiji’s multicultural and multi-faith character.
It recognises descendants of iTaukei, Rotumans, Banabans and other Pacific Islanders, Europeans, Indians, Girmitiyas and Chinese among those who have shaped Fiji.
It affirms the contributions of all communities and the “rich variety of their faiths, traditions, languages and cultures.”
The Preamble concludes with an explicit reference to God:
“WITH GOD AS OUR WITNESS, GIVE OURSELVES THIS CONSTITUTION.”
The emphasis on Christianity is also reflected in Chapter 1 of the Bill, which lists “Christianity and family values” as the first of Fiji’s proposed founding values.
That chapter nevertheless states that religion and the State are separate, while acknowledging worship and reverence for God as a source of good governance and leadership.
