Opposition MP Virendra Lal has expressed concern over the low participation of Indo-Fijians in public consultations on the proposed constitutional changes, urging the community to come forward and make its views heard.
Speaking in Parliament on Monday, Mr Lal said very few people, particularly Indo-Fijians, were participating in the consultation process.
“We have noticed that very few people, especially the Indians, are not coming forward in numbers to give their views and express their opinions,” he said.
“We want everyone to come forward so that everyone’s views can be included.”
Mr Lal said those who supported retaining the 2013 Constitution should also participate and make their positions clear.
“There may be many who believe that the 2013 Constitution is the right one. You are most welcome to come forward to say this and tell us what else you want to change, if any, or what you want not to be changed.”
He stressed that people who were satisfied with the existing Constitution should not remain silent.
“If you are fully satisfied with the 2013 Constitution then come forward and say so.”
Mr Lal described the consultation process as an important opportunity for Fijians to influence the country’s constitutional future.
“You are given one chance and one single opportunity to express your views. Governments come and go, but the Constitution stays, and it is for our future generations.”
He also assured the public that the parliamentary committee would independently assess submissions rather than automatically endorse the Government’s proposals.
“It is not a matter of supporting everything the Government wants. We will consider what is right for our people, for our nation and our future,” he said.
Mr Lal maintained that the committee’s responsibility was to give proper consideration to the views and concerns raised by citizens before making its recommendations.
