The draft Fiji Constitution is backward focused according to the President of Fiji, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, and as a result will be amended by the Governments legal team, said the Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama.
Nailatikau said unfortunately many of the provisions of the Ghai draft positions us in the past, and it has unfortunately perhaps succumb to the whims of the few who have had an interest in perpetuating divisions within our society.
Nailatikau added that the draft Constitution also neglected many of the fundamental principles of two democratic representations as presented through the Peoples Charter which he has endorsed.
The President of Fiji said the Ghai draft also purports to undo many of the changes brought about by the current Government.
Nailatikau added that there are also many positive aspects of the Ghai draft that should be incorporated into specific law rather than a constitution itself.
Speaking directly after Nailatikau, Prime Minister Comodoro Voreqe Bainimarama said the Ghai draft will be amended to ensure that the draft Constitution presented to the Constituent Assembly is one that is positive, and addresses fundamental issues of good governance that will result in an enduring Constitution and guarantee true democracy.
Commodore Bainimarama has urged all political parties, organisations and individuals who are invited to the Constituent Assembly to participate.
Story by: William Waqavakatoga and Tokasa Rainima