CONSTITUTIONAL reform should not be a contest between tradition and modern democracy.
Marama Bale na Roko Tui Dreketi Ro Temumu Kepa shared this message to the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026, saying the amendment process is an opportunity to bring the strengths of both into a constitutional order that reflected Fiji’s identity.
“The vanua does not seek privilege at the expense of others,” she said.
“We seek recognition of our indigenous identity, protection of our collective rights and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a shared national future.”
Ro Temumu said indigenous recognition and equal citizenship were not competing principles and could coexist within a distinctly Fijian democracy.
“The constitution should not be shaped merely to suit the political circumstances of the day but should provide a durable foundation for future generations.”
Ro Temumu called on the Special Committee and Government to ensure consultation was genuine, the voices of the vanua and all communities were heard, and the final constitutional settlement had the informed understanding and confidence of the people.
