The Social Democratic Liberal Party is raising concerns that proposed changes to Fiji's Constitution, could allow Parliament's term to be extended by up to 12 months during a state of emergency, potentially delaying elections.
SODELPA is calling on the Special Parliamentary Select Committee and Cabinet, to urgently review Sections 201 and 202 of the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 to safeguard people's democratic rights and freedoms.
The party says under Sections 201(3) and (4), if a state of emergency is declared towards the end of Parliament's term, the President, acting on Cabinet's advice, could extend the parliamentary term by up to 12 months.
SODELPA is concerned this could allow a government to remain in power beyond the normal parliamentary term without an election.
While acknowledging the need for emergency powers to respond to natural disasters, health crises and security threats, the party says these should not interfere with people's right to vote.
They also point out that the 2013 Constitution did not provide a mechanism for Cabinet to extend Parliament's four-year term during a state of emergency.
SODELPA is calling for Sections 201(3) and (4) to be removed from the Bill to ensure Parliament's term remains fixed and elections are held as scheduled.
The party has also raised concerns about Section 202, which it says could allow restrictions on certain rights and freedoms during a state of emergency.
These include freedom of speech, assembly and movement, personal privacy and access to information.
SODELPA warns that such powers could be misused to prevent people from speaking out, holding peaceful gatherings or questioning government decisions.
They also want freedom of speech, assembly and movement to be protected from suspension during a state of emergency.
The party stresses that it supports changes to the 2013 Constitution but believes any amendments must safeguard democracy and the rights of all Fijians.
SODELPA is also urging the Government to provide clear and accurate information, about the proposed changes so people can make informed decisions.
They say the constitutional review process must be handled carefully to protect people's rights and avoid unnecessary instability.
