President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu has said the importance of the rule of law, dialogue and compromise as essential pillars of Fiji’s democracy, as he opened the new session of Parliament in Suva.
In his address, President Lalabalavu reflected on Fiji’s constitutional and democratic journey, saying the nation’s progress has not always been easy, but has reinforced the need for leaders and citizens alike to remain firmly committed to lawful and inclusive governance.
“Our nation’s journey through four successive constitutions reflects an ongoing search for fairness, equality and stability,” he said, noting that each constitutional phase has shaped Fiji’s political maturity.
The President acknowledged that Fiji’s democratic path has included periods of difficulty and division, but said these experiences highlighted a critical lesson.
“The journey has not always been smooth, and it underscores the fact that democracy must be actively sustained by dialogue, compromise and respect for the rule of law,” he said.
President Lalabalavu said adherence to the rule of law was not optional, but fundamental to maintaining public trust, safeguarding institutions and ensuring stability in the years ahead.
He urged leaders to approach governance with balance and restraint, stressing the need to anticipate future challenges while protecting the social fabric of the nation.
“We aim for equilibrium, to maintain a sense of balance that positions us to deal with the challenges that will come upon us,” he said.
The President also called for development that is fair, inclusive and sustainable, warning that progress without justice and accountability risks weakening national unity.
“As a nation, we are challenged to review not only how far we’ve come, but also how we collectively prepare for the decades ahead, how we safeguard our community together, and how we ensure that development is fair, inclusive and sustainable for all our people,” he said.
President Lalabalavu said Fiji’s experiences — including moments of political strain — have contributed to a deeper national maturity.
“Each chapter, including moments of difficulty, has contributed to a deeper national maturity,” he said.
He concluded by urging Parliament to uphold the rule of law throughout the new session, reminding Members that history will judge not only what is achieved, but how the country is governed.
