Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu has expressed concern over Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s recent comments implying that Government is considering whether the next general election should proceed.
In a statement, Mr Seruiratu said it was simply unrealistic to believe that major constitutional amendments, electoral reforms and parliamentary processes could be completed before the general elections.
“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.
“The Coalition Government has had almost four years to pursue constitutional and electoral reforms.
“If these reforms were genuinely a priority, they should have been advanced much earlier.
“The people of Fiji should not now be asked to accept uncertainty because of the Government’s failure to manage its own timetable.”
He said any attempt to delay the general election risked creating a constitutional crisis.
“Any move to alter that timetable at this late stage would undermine public confidence and create unnecessary political and constitutional uncertainty.
“I am also concerned that the current constitutional review process is being rushed.
“Many ordinary Fijians have not had a genuine opportunity to participate meaningfully in discussions about the future of our Constitution.”
“Any changes to it must be undertaken carefully and with genuine public participation, not rushed through to satisfy political timelines.”
