Fiji’s Justice Minister Siromi Turaga told Parliament that previous governments had suppressed debate on the Constitution, but the time had now come for meaningful reform.
“We find ourselves at a pivotal moment in our country’s history. Every decision we make today will be judged by history,” he said.
He described the 2013 Constitution as “conceived in secrecy” and designed to elevate the roles of the Prime Minister and Attorney-General, giving them disproportionate power, particularly in judicial appointments.
“The Attorney-General assumed a veto power over judicial appointments, causing challenges at all levels of government,” he said.
Mr Turaga also criticised the Constitution for disregarding the role of traditional chiefs in governance.
He called for the removal of Section 159(2)(c), which he said limited constitutional amendments and contradicted the spirit of democracy.
“The highest law must prioritise the well-being of the people- justice, equality, and humanity must remain at its core,” he said.
Mr Turaga supported the proposed Bill, arguing that “laws must serve the people, not the other way around.”
