THE Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) has reversed its position on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 entirely, moving from supporting the proposed reforms to demanding the complete removal of the 2013 Constitution.
Party leader Aseri Radrodro said SODELPA was totally against the 2013 Constitution and would vote against Bill No. 32, following a decision by the party’s special general meeting.
The latest position contrasts with an earlier announcement by party president Ratu Filimoni Soqeta on October 2, who said the party’s management board had resolved to support the Bill, only on the condition “that the next general election would not be delayed” beyond February 6, 2027.
At the time, SODELPA said its support was consistent with the coalition agreement between the party, The People’s Alliance and the National Federation Party to consult widely on reviewing the Constitution and consider amendments.
“Constitutional reform must uphold transparency, accountability, the rights of all communities and the people’s democratic right to choose their government,” Mr Soqeta said in that October 2, statement.
However, as of yesterday, Mr Radrodro’s made it clear that the party now rejects the proposed amendments.
“Bill 32 has retained the immunity clause and has extended its cover to the first seating of parliament under the new constitution,” Mr Radrodro said.
“That is protecting the past misdeeds including the abuse of power and human rights in the 16 years rule of the FijiFirst government.
“SODELPA would not accept the retention of any part of the FijiFirst-imposed Constitution.”
The party leader also accused Government officials and members of the Bose Levu Vakaturaga travelling to communities of spreading misinformation by telling villagers that SODELPA opposed changing the 2013 Constitution.
“Those are lies and we put these officials on notice that the party will not hesitate to lodge formal reports against you personally and your institutions should you continue with this misinformation.”
