The Fiji Constitutional Review Commission will submit its final report on the review of the 2013 Constitution to President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu on Monday, August 31.
In a statement released on its social media page, the Commission said the submission would mark the completion of its six-month mandate.
“The report reflects the views, concerns and aspirations shared by Fijians throughout the consultation process,” the Commission said.
The seven-member Commission was formally commissioned by President Lalabalavu in March and was given until August 31 to complete its work and submit its final report. It is chaired by lawyer Sevuloni Valenitabua, with Ami Kohli, Dr Neelesh Gounder, Merewalesi Nailatikau, Dr John Fatiaki, Dr Salanieta Bakalevu and Conway Beg serving as members.
Under its terms of reference, the Commission was tasked with conducting meaningful consultations with Fijians and examining the effectiveness, relevance and implementation of provisions of the 2013 Constitution.
Its work included considering issues relating to governance, rights and accountability while ensuring the views of diverse and marginalised communities were taken into account.
The Commission conducted nationwide consultations, receiving oral and written submissions from individuals, communities, organisations and institutions.
By early July, consultation teams had visited more than 100 venues and received submissions involving more than 2,000 participants, before moving into the analysis and report-writing stage.
The review has also attracted debate over whether the six-month process provided sufficient time for public participation. The Commission rejected suggestions that the exercise was rushed, maintaining that extensive opportunities had been provided for Fijians to participate.
Monday’s presentation to the President will bring that process to its formal conclusion.
