THE Government should not rush the proposed Constitution amendment process while Fijians are grappling with rising living costs, says Savusavu resident Aren Nunnink.
Making a submission to the Special Committee on the Constitution Amendment Bill 2026, Mr Nunnink questioned the proposed timeline for the Bill’s third reading and a possible referendum on December 9, 2026.
He said the proposed Act stated it would come into force on March 31, 2028, raising questions about the urgency of completing the process in 2026.
Mr Nunnink suggested the process could continue under the next government, allowing more time for public consultation and consideration of the proposed changes.
He also questioned whether the Bill was an amendment to the 2013 Constitution, arguing that its preamble stated it would repeal all provisions of the existing Constitution.
“This is not an amendment, but a completely new Constitution and is therefore deserving of much wider, slower, more carefully considered consultation before a referendum is held,” he said.
“A referendum on December 9 would leave less than two months for citizens to consider the proposed changes.”
He also questioned the estimated $40 million cost of holding a standalone referendum, saying the expenditure needed to be considered alongside the financial pressures facing businesses, workers and consumers.
He cited company tax, value-added tax (VAT), the tourism industry tax and high fuel prices as factors adding to the cost of doing business and living in Fiji.
“It is unconscionable for our Government to conduct this referendum as a separate, stand-alone exercise.
“Imagine we spend $40million, we go through this whole thing and it’s a no vote. What a waste of money.
“At least let’s have it at the same time as the next election if we have to have it early.”
