Independent Member of Parliament Ketan Lal has filed proceedings in the High Court of Fiji challenging the Speaker’s decision concerning the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026.
In a media statement issued today, Mr Lal confirmed he had initiated legal action, saying the challenge was intended to ensure that any changes to Fiji’s Constitution followed the proper legal process.
“With that in mind, I have today taken the step of filing proceedings in the High Court of Fiji regarding the Speaker’s decision on the Constitution amendment bill,” Mr Lal said.
“I have done so out of respect for our institutions and with full confidence in our courts.”
Mr Lal stressed that his decision was not motivated by political differences or personal disagreements.
“This is not about personalities or party politics. It is about the rule of law, and about making sure that any change to our Constitution is made in the manner the Constitution itself prescribes.”
The legal challenge comes as the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 progresses through Parliament.
The Bill passed its second reading with 38 votes in favour, five against and nine abstentions, securing the required two-thirds majority at that stage.
Mr Lal was among the five MPs who voted against the Bill.
However, his statement did not specify which decision of the Speaker was being challenged or the orders being sought from the High Court.
Mr Lal said he would respect the judicial process and refrain from discussing the merits of the case publicly.
“The matter is now before the Court, and I will respect that process and say no more on the merits outside it,” he said.
He also encouraged Fijians to follow the proceedings, emphasising the national significance of constitutional reform.
“I urge every Fijian to take an interest in the outcome, because the Constitution belongs to all of us, and so does the future we are building with it.”
