Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu has accused Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of being more focused on securing his personal legacy than addressing the immediate concerns of Fijians, as debate continues over constitutional and electoral reforms ahead of the next General Election.
Mr Seruiratu said Fiji was only months away from the dissolution of Parliament and questioned whether there was sufficient time to undertake major constitutional amendments, electoral reforms, public consultations and any potential referendum before the election.
“It is disappointing that the Prime Minister appears more focused on securing his personal legacy than on putting the people of Fiji first,” Mr Seruiratu said.
He said the Coalition Government had almost four years to pursue constitutional and electoral reforms and should have acted earlier if they were a genuine priority.
“The Prime Minister is wishfully thinking if he believes these processes can be undertaken in a credible, transparent and democratic manner within the limited time that remains,” he said.
Mr Seruiratu said the Government’s priority should instead be the everyday pressures confronting Fijians.
“At a time when Fijians are struggling with the rising cost of living, concerns over healthcare, crime, infrastructure and economic uncertainty, the Prime Minister should be focused on addressing the issues affecting everyday families,” he said.
Mr Seruiratu also warned against any move that could delay the General Election, saying changing the timetable at this stage could create political and constitutional uncertainty.
“More importantly, any attempt to delay the General Election risks creating a constitutional crisis,” he said.
“Altering the timetable at this late stage would undermine public confidence and create unnecessary political and constitutional uncertainty.”
He also expressed concern that the constitutional review process was being rushed and said ordinary Fijians needed a meaningful opportunity to participate.
“The Constitution belongs to the people of Fiji,” Mr Seruiratu said.
“Any changes must be undertaken carefully and with genuine public participation — not rushed through to satisfy political timelines.”
Mr Seruiratu said the Electoral Commission had indicated it was ready to conduct the next General Election and called on Government to respect the constitutional timetable.
“The Government should respect that timetable and allow the people of Fiji to exercise their democratic right to choose their next government,” he said.
