National Federation Party leader Professor Biman Prasad is calling for constitutional reform to be deferred until after the general election, saying the work done so far is not a waste of taxpayers’ money.
Responding to concerns that public consultations would be wasted if the Constitution Amendment Bill failed to secure the required parliamentary support, Prof Prasad said the process had already generated important national discussions.
“The work that the CRC has done, the work that is being done at the moment with the draft, it all makes sense. At least we have created a discussion, a debate after so many years,” he said.
He said the resources invested in the process were worthwhile, but progress towards a final outcome would be difficult if political parties and members of the public believed it was being rushed.
Prof Prasad said the process could continue after the general election and be undertaken by the next Parliament.
“So, we are at a point where we can go to Parliament, we can go to the people, and the people will be happy about it, that this process can continue after the general election and undertaken by the next Parliament.”
He said the outcome of the election would not necessarily change the political players involved, with many likely to come from the same parties and, in some cases, be the same individuals.
“That’s why we must extend this process beyond the general election, to give more legitimacy, to give more time, to get more people to understand, agree on a common ground.”
Prof Prasad said the Supreme Court decision had created an opportunity for the next Parliament to build consensus on a constitution that laid the foundation for unity and inclusivity.
He said NFP believed consensus should be established before a referendum to improve the chances of public approval.
“That is a constitution that would have legitimacy, that would have a great future.”
