President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu says the review of Fiji’s 2013 Constitution is not complete, stressing that the Commission’s report must now proceed through Parliament and the country’s democratic processes.
Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Ratu Naiqama reflected on Fiji’s history of political upheaval, constitutional change and division as he outlined the country’s ongoing constitutional and reconciliation processes.
“Fiji’s democratic journey has not been easy. We have known political upheaval, constitutional change and periods of deep division,” he said.
“We cannot change that history, but we can learn from it.”
Ratu Naiqama told the General Assembly that Fiji had undertaken a national review of the 2013 Constitution this year, informed by consultations across the country.
He said the Constitution Review Commission presented its report to him as Head of State on September 1.
“That did not end the process. It began the next stage,” Ratu Naiqama said.
“The report must now proceed through Parliament and the democratic processes transparently and in accordance with the rule of law.”
The President said Fiji’s objective should be to establish a constitutional framework that belongs to all Fijians rather than one designed around a particular government, political party or generation.
“What Fiji seeks is not a constitution for a government or a party or one generation, but a settlement that every Fijian recognises as their own,” he said.
Ratu Naiqama also linked the constitutional process with Fiji’s ongoing truth and reconciliation efforts.
“Renewal strengthens institutions and reconciliation heals divisions,” he said.
“Together they can carry Fiji from memory to understanding and from division to trust.”
