THE proposed extension of Parliament’s term by up to 12 months during a state of emergency risks undermining Fiji’s democratic mandate, the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) warns.
The party is calling for Sections 201(3) and (4) of the draft Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 to be removed, arguing that elections must proceed as scheduled regardless of an emergency declaration.
Under the proposed provisions, the President may, on Cabinet’s advice, extend the term of the House of Representatives for up to a year if a state of emergency is declared when Parliament is due to expire.
SODELPA said emergency powers were necessary but must not compromise democratic principles.
“Emergency clauses must never contain mechanisms that risk undermining democratic mandates or compromising fundamental human rights,” the party said in a statement.
“Allowing an incumbent Cabinet to extend Parliament’s term by up to a year creates a dangerous legal loophole.
“The electorate’s democratic right to vote on schedule must be protected, rather than deferred by executive discretion.”
The party compared the proposal with Section 154 of the 2013 Constitution, which it said contained no mechanism for extending Parliament’s four-year term during a state of emergency.
SODELPA acknowledged that it wanted changes to the 2013 Constitution but argued that the existing framework provided an important reference point for emergency powers.
“The term of Parliament should remain fixed without executive extension.”
The party has urged the Special Parliamentary Select Committee and Cabinet to remove the two provisions and retain the principle that general elections must proceed on schedule.
SODELPA said constitutional reform must balance emergency management with protecting democratic elections and the rights of Fijians.
