Convicted 2000 coup participant Jo Nata has proposed sweeping changes to Fiji’s system of government, calling for the abolition of the Prime Minister’s office, the introduction of an elected Executive President and a constitutionally limited Cabinet.
In his submission to the Constitution Review Commission, Nata argued that Fiji should adopt its own unique executive model rather than simply replicate overseas systems.
“Our President should be elected. The office of the Prime Minister should be abolished.”
He said Fiji should study both the United States and French systems but develop a governance model tailored to the country’s needs.
“There are two models that I specifically propose that we look into. The US, which has an executive president… and French, which has a President and a Prime Minister. But Fiji should have its unique executive creation.”
Under Nata’s proposal, the leader of the party or coalition commanding a parliamentary majority would be sworn in by the Chief Justice as President.
“The leader of the party which wins the majority of seats and cobbled together a majority coalition is sworn in by the Chief Justice as President.”
Nata also proposed that Cabinet ministers be appointed from outside Parliament, selecting experienced leaders from business and professional sectors.
“The President shall appoint to his Cabinet from outside Parliament – from the professions, captains of industry, leaders in fields, but not from academia or theorists.”
He argued that appointing financially established individuals would help reduce corruption.
“People appointed are men and women who have made it and are in good financial positions. It has the potential of minimising corruption at the highest level of government.”
Nata further recommended limiting Cabinet to 12 members to reflect Fiji’s size and economy.
“Cabinet should be constitutionally limited to 12, considering the size of our country and our economy. This will prevent outrageously bloated Cabinet for political expediency.”
He also proposed replacing the title of Minister with Secretary, and creating a dedicated Secretary for Nation Building responsible for national reconciliation, ethnic harmony and related nation-building initiatives.
