The NGO Coalition on Human Rights (NGOCHR) has called for the consultation period on Fiji’s Draft Constitution to be extended by at least six months, warning that rushing the process could undermine its democratic legitimacy.
The coalition said the consultation process, which began on October 15, must provide sufficient time for meaningful public participation, particularly among communities facing barriers to accessing information.
NGOCHR chair Shamima Ali criticised the proposed timeframe, saying Fiji could not condemn the process through which the 2013 Constitution was introduced while risking similar shortcomings in the current constitutional reform exercise.
“You cannot criticise the 2013 Constitution for being imposed through an undemocratic process and then deliberately rush what is supposed to be a democratic, whole-of-society consultation process that gives a constitution its legitimacy,” Ms Ali said.
“Our leaders must not forget that a Constitution is changed and shaped by the people – it is for people and by the people, not politicians.”
She warned that rushing consultations could reduce the exercise to a symbolic process rather than genuine public engagement.
“Rushing consultations on its replacement or reform is purely a performative exercise and risks reproducing that same lack of legitimacy.”
“This process must not be a farce where it lacks deep and authentic public engagement.”
The coalition said constitutional reform required broad public participation, adequate civic education and sufficient opportunities for people to understand the proposed changes before making submissions.
It expressed concern that a short consultation period could exclude rural and maritime communities, persons with disabilities, young people, women and girls, marginalised groups and those with limited digital access.
NGOCHR said an extension should be supported by a publicly communicated consultation plan covering nationwide community meetings, accessible information in relevant languages and formats, and opportunities for independent civic engagement.
The coalition also called for transparency on how public submissions would be assessed and incorporated into the next stages of constitutional reform.
It stressed that constitutional legitimacy depended not only on the final document but also on the credibility and inclusiveness of the process used to develop it.
“An extension of six months or more should not be viewed as an unnecessary delay. Rather, it is an essential investment in public trust, democratic participation, and the protection of human rights,” the coalition said.
NGOCHR urged authorities to ensure consultations were adequately resourced and independently monitored where appropriate.
“The Constitution belongs to the people, and it derives its authority from the people. Every person must have a fair and meaningful opportunity to contribute to its future.”
