University of Canterbury distinguished professor and political sociologist Steven Ratuva believes differences between Coalition partners are making political tensions difficult to contain.
The Coalition Government, he believes, faces mounting pressure, with disagreements over constitutional reform, uncertainty surrounding the election date and shifting political alliances exposing divisions within the governing partnership.
Professor Ratuva suggests these tensions have reached a point where public assurances of unity may no longer be enough to conceal their differences.
Frustration over the pace and direction of constitutional reform, alongside uncertainty surrounding the election timetable, remains a key source of concern.
These challenges, he warns, could undermine the Government’s strategic direction, with Coalition partners SODELPA and the National Federation Party appearing increasingly eager to distance themselves from contentious issues as they prepare for the next election.
Against this backdrop, the constitutional amendment process presents a critical test of the Coalition’s unity.
Failure to secure the required parliamentary votes, he cautions, could have serious consequences for the proposed legislation and the Coalition itself.
He also warns against assuming the next general election will automatically deliver the political and economic transformation many Fijians want.
While an incoming government could revisit constitutional reform and address concerns surrounding the current process, he believes Fiji’s political history suggests a change in leadership does not necessarily guarantee meaningful policy reform.
Now that is the big question. Will the next government embrace reforms and address the concerns being raised? Or will it choose to retain the 2013 Constitution? We say a constitution should be the ultimate symbol of national unity. It should reflect the aspirations of the people, protect their rights and provide a foundation for stability, confidence and progress.
This is where the masses must have their say. This is when political parties must put their cards on the table, clearly explain their positions and convince voters that their promises are backed by genuine commitment.
That is the power of democracy. However, democracy demands accountability, transparency and respect for the people whose mandate gives governments the authority to lead.
The coming election must be about the future of Fiji, the constitutional framework that guides us and the kind of nation we want to leave for future generations.
We say political leaders must understand that public confidence must be earned through decisions that place national interests above political survival. Ultimately, it is the people who will decide. To that effect, their verdict must be respected, their voices heard and their aspirations reflected in the decisions that follow. That is democracy. And we say, that is where the real power must always remain!
