2026 Constitution Amendment Bill Tabled in Parliament

The Constitution Amendment Bill proposes the establishment of a 23-member Senate, which will be responsible for reviewing Bills passed by the House of Representatives.

The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption will no longer exist if the Constitution Amendment Bill is passed.

FICAC is not included in the proposed Constitution tabled by Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka.

The repeal of the FICAC 2007 is also stated in the Bill.

The Constitution Amendment Bill will be debated on Friday and the third reading of the Bill is expected to take place in 30 days.

The Constitution Amendment Bill tabled in Parliament proposes every person has the right to freedom of speech, expression, thought, opinion and publication under Section 20.

This include freedom to seek, receive and impart information, knowledge and ideas, freedom of the press, including print, electronic and other media, freedom of imagination and creativity and academic freedom and freedom of scientific research.

The Bill says freedom of speech, expression, thought, opinion and publication does not protect— propaganda for war, incitement to violence or insurrection against this Constitution; or 24 Constitution (Amendment) of 2026  advocacy of hatred that is based on any prohibited ground of discrimination listed or prescribed under section 29 and  constitutes incitement to cause harm.

It stresses that a law may limit, or may authorise the limitation of the rights and freedoms in the interests of national security, public safety, public order, public morality, public health or the orderly conduct of elections, the protection or maintenance of the reputation, privacy, dignity, rights or freedoms of other persons, including the right to be free from hate speech, whether directed against individuals or groups and the rights of persons injured by inaccurate or offensive media reports to have a correction published on reasonable conditions established by law, preventing the disclosure, as appropriate, of information received in confidence, preventing attacks on the dignity of individuals, groups of individuals or respected offices or institutions in a manner likely to promote ill will between ethnic or religious groups or the oppression of, or discrimination against, any person or group of persons,  maintaining the authority and independence of the courts; imposing reasonable restrictions on the holders of public offices in order to secure their impartial and confidential service, and regulating the technical administration of telecommunications.

The Bill states that in this section, “hate speech” means an expression in whatever form that encourages, or has the effect of encouraging discrimination on a ground listed or prescribed under section 29.

Meanwhile, the Bill states every person has the right of access to information held by any public office.

The Bill says every person has the right to the correction or deletion of untrue or misleading information that affects that person.

It states to the extent that is necessary, a law may limit, or may authorise the limitation of, the rights set out in subsection and may regulate the procedure under which information held by a public office may be made available.

The Centre for Democracy and Dialogue says its preliminary analysis of the Fiji Government's Constitution Amendment Bill shows significant changes from the Constitution Review Commission’s draft, including the removal or weakening of several democratic and accountability safeguards.

Centre for Democracy and Dialogue Chief Executive Officer Nilesh Lal says while the Constitution Amendment Bill retains some of the broad structure of the Constitution Review Commission's Draft Bill, it does not meaningfully address what the Centre for Democracy and Dialogue considers the excessive concentration of power in the Executive under the 2013 Constitution.

Lal says the Government's Constitution Amendment Bill removes the proposed limit on the Prime Minister’s tenure and the limit on the size of Cabinet as proposed by the Review Commission.

The CRC Amendment Bill proposed that Cabinet consist of the Prime Minister and up to 14 Ministers and that a person could not serve as Prime Minister more than twice.

However, under Section 110 of the Constitution Amendment Bill, the Prime Minister would determine the number of Ministers.

Lal says another significant change concerns the Constitutional Offices Commission.

He says the CRC Amendment Bill proposed a five-member COC appointed through an independent appointments committee, while the Government draft makes the serving Prime Minister the chair of the commission alongside the Attorney-General.

Lal says the Government would also have influence over the appointment of two further members, which he says would give it a four-to-two majority over the Opposition.

They say the COC is responsible for appointments to several key constitutional offices, including the Electoral Commission, Supervisor of Elections, Public Service Commission, Police Commissioner, Corrections Commissioner, RFMF Commander, Auditor-General, Reserve Bank Governor and Ombudsman.

The Centre also says provisions proposed by the CRC on political parties, political finance and campaigning have been removed from the Government draft.

The CRC Amendment Bill included constitutional provisions covering political party conduct, donations, disclosure requirements and access to State-owned media.

Lal says leaving these matters to ordinary law could allow future parliamentary majorities to change the rules.

The Centre says the Bill of Rights in the Constitution Amendment Bill generally provides stronger protections than the current Constitution but has raised concern over Section 40, which expressly permits lawful and moderate chastisement of children for correction.

Lal describes this as a regression from both the CRC draft and the 2013 Constitution.

Centre says other reforms proposed by the CRC that have been removed include stronger measures for women’s representation, a National Planning Commission, a National Infrastructure Council, a constitutionally mandated Opposition chair of the Public Accounts Committee, an independent Constitution Implementation Commission and a pluralistic Presidential Appointment Commission.

Lal says these changes raise questions about how the Constitution Amendment Bill was prepared and why it differs significantly from the CRC Amendment Bill submitted on 31st August.

He is questioning who wrote the Government's Constitution Amendment Bill, what was the basis for the changes from the CRC Amendment Bill and how the substantially different constitutional text was produced within a short period.

The Centre says its assessment is preliminary and argues that the changes substantially dilute safeguards proposed by the CRC against the concentration and abuse of State power.

Opposition Leader, Inia Seruiratu says any new constitutional framework must serve Fiji fairly and democratically for generations and should not be shaped around the interests of the government, opposition or institutions of today.

During the second reading of the Bill, the Opposition Leader did not state whether he supports or does not support the Constitution Amendment Bill.

Seruiratu says constitutional reviews provide an opportunity to change the direction of the country, but there must be a clear understanding of why change is necessary, what needs to change and the implications and benefits of those changes.

He says the process must be guided by good governance, including public participation, consensus, inclusivity, accountability and transparency.

Seruiratu stresses that the Bill is not an ordinary piece of legislation, as it proposes to repeal provisions of the 2013 Constitution, with the exception of Chapter 10, and replace them with a new constitutional framework contained in the schedule to the Bill.

He says this places an enormous responsibility on Parliament.

Seruiratu says governments come and go, Prime Ministers and Opposition Leaders change, political parties rise and fall, and every Member of Parliament will eventually leave public office, but a constitution is intended to endure beyond the political circumstances of the day.

He says Parliament must therefore consider whether the proposed constitutional system will serve Fiji fairly and democratically for generations to come.

The Opposition Leader also says constitutional legitimacy cannot simply be measured by whether consultations were held or submissions received.

He says there is an important distinction between consultation and genuine public ownership, and the key question is whether the final document sufficiently reflects the aspirations, concerns and expectations of the wider population.

Seruiratu says constitutional recognition must also go beyond words in a preamble, with institutions established under the Constitution giving every community confidence that they have a place, a voice and an equal stake in Fiji’s future.

He says constitutional reform should never become a contest where recognition of one community is perceived as coming at the expense of another.

Seruiratu also stressed the importance of retaining a common national identity.

He says the strength of a constitution cannot be measured only by the promises contained in its text, but also by whether the institutions it establishes are capable of upholding those promises when they come under pressure.

Debate on the Constitution Amendment Bill continues.

The Constitution Amendment Bill 2026 has passed its second reading in Parliament after the Government secured the required 35 votes.

A total of 38 MPs voted in favour of the Bill, five voted against it, nine abstained and one did not vote.

The Bill will now proceed to its third reading.

A Joint Parliamentary Select Committee led by Prime Minister Rabuka, and Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka, National Federation Party Leader and MP Professor Biman Prasad, Acting Attorney General Siromi Turaga, Minister for Lands Filimoni Vosarogo, Minister for Information Lynda Tabuya, Minister for Rural and Maritime Development Mosese Bulitavu, Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu and 3 members of the Opposition nominated by the Opposition Leader will have consultations with the people of Fiji over the next 30 days.

The Special Committee will report back to Parliament on 2nd November.

Rabuka says what Parliament discussed today is not just a Bill, but a framework by which people will live, work, raise their families, practise their faith, protect their communities and determine the future of the country.

He says the Constitution must serve the people and respond to the realities they face today and in the future.

Meanwhile, a total of 12 speakers from both the Government and the Opposition spoke on the Bill during the debate.

Opposition Leader, Inia Seruiratu says any new constitutional framework must serve Fiji fairly and democratically for generations and should not be shaped around the interests of the government, opposition or institutions of today.

Seruiratu says constitutional reviews provide an opportunity to change the direction of the country, but there must be a clear understanding of why change is necessary, what needs to change and the implications and benefits of those changes.

He says the process must be guided by good governance, including public participation, consensus, inclusivity, accountability and transparency.

Seruiratu stresses that the Bill is not an ordinary piece of legislation, as it proposes to repeal provisions of the 2013 Constitution, with the exception of Chapter 10, and replace them with a new constitutional framework contained in the schedule to the Bill.

He says this places an enormous responsibility on Parliament.

Seruiratu says governments come and go, Prime Ministers and Opposition Leaders change, political parties rise and fall, and every Member of Parliament will eventually leave public office, but a constitution is intended to endure beyond the political circumstances of the day.

He says Parliament must therefore consider whether the proposed constitutional system will serve Fiji fairly and democratically for generations to come.

The Opposition Leader also says constitutional legitimacy cannot simply be measured by whether consultations were held or submissions received.

He says there is an important distinction between consultation and genuine public ownership, and the key question is whether the final document sufficiently reflects the aspirations, concerns and expectations of the wider population.

Seruiratu says constitutional recognition must also go beyond words in a preamble, with institutions established under the Constitution giving every community confidence that they have a place, a voice and an equal stake in Fiji's future.

He says constitutional reform should never become a contest where recognition of one community is perceived as coming at the expense of another.

Seruiratu also stressed the importance of retaining a common national identity.

He says the strength of a constitution cannot be measured only by the promises contained in its text, but also by whether the institutions it establishes are capable of upholding those promises when they come under pressure.

Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga says amending the 2013 Constitution would bring Fiji's constitutional framework more closely in line with international human rights standards and reflect the belief that human dignity, equality and justice are rights that must be respected and protected.

Opposition MP Ketan Lal says the Constitution is not an ordinary piece of legislation and therefore any changes to it must be guided by fundamental principles.

Lal says questions must be asked about whether the proposed changes protect citizens and hold the government accountable.

The Opposition MP says constitutional reform should pass the democratic test and any change must be justified.

He says changes to the Constitution should not be made to suit the government or because it does not like the Opposition.

Speaker of Parliament Filimone Jitoko reminded Lal that the second reading debate should focus on the principles and merits of the Bill, rather than general criticism.

Lal concluded by saying he does not support the Constitution Amendment Bill.

Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya says any constitutional reform must strengthen democracy, protect equal citizenship and ensure those exercising political power remain accountable.

Koya questioned whether the consultation process had been broad enough, and said that people must be given enough time to obtain and read the Bill and understand the proposed changes.

He says constitutional reform should be judged by whether the change is necessary, strengthens democracy, restrains power, protects equality and gives people greater confidence and control over those who govern.

He says the ultimate test comes down to three questions, which is where does the power sit, who exercises it, and who holds that person or institution accountable?

Koya concluded by saying that he does not support the Constitution Amendment Bill.

During his contribution, Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica raised a point of order, saying Koya had made very little mention of the merits or demerits of the Bill and was instead discussing issues such as the timing of the process.

The Speaker also reminded Koya that criticism could be raised during the third reading and that the second reading was largely procedural in nature.

Fiji Labour Party Leader Mahendra Chaudhry says Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is acting unlawfully and unconstitutionally by announcing a date for a national referendum on the Constitution Amendment Bill before the Bill has completed its parliamentary process.

Chaudhry says the Supreme Court opinion has made it clear that the 2013 Constitution remains effective and is the supreme law of the land.

He says the Constitution Amendment Bill has not yet gone through its third reading, which he says is mandatory before a referendum date can be set.

Chaudhry says the Prime Minister cannot act on the assumption that the Bill will pass its third reading.

He also says the Prime Minister does not have the right to direct the Electoral Commission to suspend all general election campaign activities.

Chaudhry says the independence of electoral institutions must be respected.

Chaudhry says this is a bid by the Prime Minister to remain in power despite his undertaking in Parliament that the elections would be held under the 2013 Constitution.

The third reading and vote on the Constitution Amendment Bill will take place in parliament on November 2nd after consultations by the Joint Parliamentary Select Committee chaired by Prime Minister Rabuka.

If 66 percent of MPs vote in favour of the Bill, then a national referendum will be held on 9th December and the result of that referendum is expected to be out by 14th December this year.

Student Association representatives from the University of the South Pacific and the University of Fiji have raised concerns over the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill that has a section on moderate chastisement of children for the purposes of correction.

They say while parents and teachers have a responsibility to guide children and maintain discipline, any form of physical punishment must be carefully considered because of its possible effects on children's confidence, learning and well-being.

University of the South Pacific Students Association President Adi Cama says the proposed amendment needs to be considered carefully, particularly the meaning and application of the term “moderate chastisement”.

Cama says parents and teachers have a responsibility to guide and correct children, but discipline should respect the dignity, safety and wellbeing of the child.

USPSA says if the amendment becomes law, there should be clear definitions, safeguards and proper guidance for parents and teachers.

The University of Fiji Students Association President Rodney Vakaloloma also says he does not support physical violence against children as a form of correction or discipline.

Vakaloloma says the student perspective should also be considered through documents such as the Law 205 Constitution and the Constitution draft prepared by students.

He has advised people to refer to the student Constitution draft, which raises and reflects the views of students on constitutional matters.

Meanwhile a medical student who wishes to remain anonymous says that he does not support physical punishment, saying there are other measures that can be used to maintain discipline among children.

The student also raised concerns about the possible impact of physical punishment on students' schoolwork, confidence and participation in the classroom.

He says children could become afraid to ask questions or speak openly in the classroom if they fear being physically punished.

The students associations' representatives say the views of students and young people should be considered as discussions continue on the proposed constitution amendments.

Independent Member of Parliament Ketan Lal has filed proceedings in the High Court against the Speaker of Parliament, the Acting Attorney-General and the Electoral Commission over the Constitutional Amendment Bill.

He will be represented by lawyer Mohammed Saneem. 

Speaking to the media at the High Court Registry this afternoon, Lal says he is concerned about the state of democracy in Fiji and stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law.

In his court application, Lal is seeking declarations on the voting threshold required to amend the 2013 Constitution, arguing that at least three-quarters of Members of Parliament must support the changes.

He is also challenging the Speaker's decision to allow a two-thirds majority as the required threshold, with 53 MPs identified as the number needed to support the Bill.

Lal is seeking an alternative declaration that, if a two-thirds majority is applied, the required support should be calculated using all 55 MPs rather than 53.

He is also arguing that the second reading of the Bill was not preceded by a full opportunity for debate.

Lal is seeking a declaration that the Bill cannot lawfully proceed to a third reading and that any third reading would have no legal effect.

He is further seeking a declaration that the Speaker cannot lawfully notify the President about the Bill and that a referendum on the Constitution Bill cannot lawfully be conducted.

The application also seeks orders restraining the Speaker from putting the questions on the third reading and the Electoral Commission from conducting a referendum on the Constitution Bill until the court determines the Summons.

Lal says young people and citizens have the right to know what is happening in the country and stresses that the Constitution remains as the supreme law of Fiji.

He says its provisions must be respected and that the voices of all Fijians, particularly young people, must be heard. 

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka highlighted this after the Joint Parliamentary Select Committee on Constitution Review met at Parliament today.

Rabuka says Parliament was originally expected to hold its final sitting in the first week of November, but this could now be extended.

He says Parliament may return in the first week of November to seek additional sitting days, with further sittings possibly held in the second or third week of the month.

Insert: PM on the Constitution Ammendment Bill. 12th October,26

The Prime Minister says the previous parliamentary sitting allowed 30 days for the process, but the past week was spent dealing with other matters.

He says today's committee meeting was the first opportunity to finalise the agenda and programme for the week.

When asked whether other political parties had raised concerns during the meeting, Rabuka says no further concerns were raised about the main issues in the proposed constitutional changes.

He also says Cabinet has agreed with the Special Committee on the Constitution.

The Constitution Amendment Bill has already passed its second reading and will need another vote in Parliament before it can proceed to a national referendum.

The National Federation Party wants the removal of Christianity as a founding constitutional value of the State in Clause 1 of the Constitution Amendment Bill, while permitting appropriate historical recognition of Christianity and other faiths in the Preamble.

The Party’s Management Board during its special meeting today discussed the Constitution Amendment Bill, identifying its shortcomings and proposed changes that the Party believes are necessary.

NFP President, Parmod Chand says the party wants preservation of the common national identity of all citizens as Fijians, with equal political rights and constitutional protection for the identities, cultures and traditions of all communities.

They want absolute protection of iTaukei, Rotuman, Banaban and freehold land ownership, together with enforceable security of tenure for agricultural and residential tenants, including sublessees.

NFP wants a 56-member House elected through Mixed Member Proportional Representation, comprising 28 constituency members and 28 proportional representation members, with separate constituency and party votes.

They also want genuine representative Senate reflecting Fiji's diverse communities, without a majority of seats being controlled by the Bose Levu Vakaturaga.

NFP stressed removal of the provision permitting the lawful and moderate chastisement of children and complete removal of constitutional immunity provisions protecting those responsible for unconstitutional political upheavals and related conduct.

They want the removal of constitutional restrictions preventing citizens from seeking judicial remedies for unlawful or arbitrary actions of the State, depoliticisation of the Constitutional Offices Commission and the appointment of independent constitutional officeholders, enforceable constitutional provisions establishing the Ombudsman and requiring legislation on the Code of Conduct, accountability, transparency and freedom of information.

NFP wants strengthening of the Bill of Rights and removing excessive restrictions on freedom of expression, association, assembly, political participation and equality before the law, removal of any discretionary power of the President to determine when the Constitution comes into force, unambiguous constitutional subordination of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces to elected civilian authority, with no independent military mandate to intervene in government.

NFP wants an independent Constituency Boundaries Commission, fair electoral laws, transparent electoral administration and protection against political manipulation of elections, abolition of FICAC in its present form and the establishment of independent, accountable and effective arrangements for investigating and prosecuting corruption.

They want stronger constitutional safeguards against environmental degradation, protection of natural resources and provision for animal welfare, a fair, democratic and accessible constitutional amendment process, without permanent immunity provisions or disproportionate veto powers vested in any single institution and adequate time for public consultation, translation of the proposed Constitution into the vernacular languages, independent scrutiny and comprehensive parliamentary deliberation before its final passage.

The Party says these are principles upon which the NFP has stood for more than six decades.

NFP says it's support for the Constitution Amendment Bill and continued participation in the Special Parliamentary Committee on the Constitution is conditional and dependent on the extension of the timeline for public consultation until mid-December.

They say it will also depend on changes that the Party has identified and the principles that the NFP wants in the Constitution Amendment Bill are significantly important.

NFP is represented in Parliament’s Special Committee to review the Constitution Bill by its leader, Professor Biman Prasad.

NFP's President says the Government’s current timetable is for the Constitution Amendment Bill to return to Parliament in the first week of November and the Party is seriously concerned that of the 19 days, consultation is only for 13 days, 2 days is for Report writing and one day is to finalise the Report.

The Prime Minister indicated on Monday that he is prepared to look at a longer consultation and deliberation process, perhaps up to the end of the Parliament in late December.

Chand says NFP has consistently called for the replacement of the undemocratic 2013 Constitution, but replacing one Constitution with another cannot become another exercise in imposing constitutional arrangements upon the people without their informed consent.

He says Constitution's legitimacy must come from the people, not the political convenience of those in power.

All nightclubs in Fiji should close at 11pm to allow parents to spend more time with their families, according to Methodist Church President Reverend Dr Semisi Turagavou, who is also calling for a National Day of Prayer for people of all faiths.

Reverend Dr Turagavou raised these issues during consultations on the Constitution Amendment Bill, saying there needs to be greater control over nightclub operating hours and more emphasis on family responsibilities.

He says nightclubs have previously remained open until 1am, raising concerns about parents going out at night and leaving their children at home until the following morning.

Turagavou says this is an issue the country needs to seriously consider, as both mothers and fathers should return home earlier and spend time with their families.

He is proposing that all nightclubs close at 11pm to allow parents to return home earlier and fulfil their responsibilities towards their children and families.

The Methodist Church President also believes Fiji should have a National Day of Prayer, when people of different faiths can pray for the country.

He says the proposal does not mean everyone must gather under one roof, as people can pray from their homes or wherever they are.

Turagavou says Christians, Muslims, Hindus and members of other religious groups should all be encouraged to take part in praying for the nation.

He believes that when people pray collectively, God will hear their prayers.

His proposals focus on the importance of faith, family responsibilities and encouraging parents to spend more time with their children.

Former SODELPA General Secretary Viliame Takayawa describes the use of 'Fijian' as a national identity under the 2013 Constitution as 'technical genocide', saying it has taken away part of the indigenous people's history and identity.

Takayawa made the comments during public consultation on the Constitution Amendment Bill, where he raised concerns about the national identity introduced under the 2013 Constitution.

He says the term 'Fijian' was historically used to identify the indigenous people of Fiji and believes its use as a national identity has taken away something important from them.

Takayawa says removing the term from its previous use also means deleting part of the history and heritage of indigenous people and their ancestors.

He describes this as 'technical genocide', explaining that he believes genocide can involve not only the killing of people but also the removal of a group's history and identity.

Takayawa also refers to discussions held in 1997, saying the term Fiji Islander was proposed as a national identity that could be shared by all citizens.

He says he believes this would have been a democratic approach to national identity.

Takayawa maintains that indigenous identity should still be recognised, suggesting that an indigenous name could be retained alongside the national identity.

He also says people across the region share a Pacific Islander identity, while reiterating his support for the recognition of Fiji Islanders.

His submission focuses on the relationship between national identity, indigenous heritage and the recognition of the history of Fiji's people.

A 25-year-old youth Nitish Sharma says children are not bullocks and cannot be beaten into obedience, raising concerns about the chastisement of children during the consultation on the Constitution Amendment Bill in Suva.

Sharma, who is originally from Cuvu, Sigatoka, says although children may not always listen to their parents and teachers, physical punishment is not the solution.

He says issues such as drugs and HIV are concerning, but beating children will not necessarily change their behaviour.

Insert:Sharma on chastisement of children nb 15th Oct

He also raises concerns about several other proposed constitutional changes, including immunity provisions, saying it is time for the country to move forward, learn from the past and focus on preventing similar violations in the future.

Sharma questions the need for a Senate, arguing that Parliament should be strong enough to prevent unnecessary bills from being passed.

He also questions the process of repeatedly sending bills between the two chambers and says Senate members should be elected rather than appointed.

Sharma says Fiji is a diverse country and all communities should have an opportunity to be represented in Parliament.

On the selection of the President, he says Parliament should elect the Head of State rather than leaving the decision solely to a group of people.

He acknowledges the role of chiefs but questions whether they should be the only ones deciding who becomes President.

Sharma also calls for the current four-year parliamentary term to remain, rather than being extended to five years.

He says people should continue to have a say in future constitutional amendments through referendums, arguing that the Constitution belongs to the people and they should not be excluded from decisions about it.

On the electoral system, Sharma supports retaining the current single nationwide open-list system, saying it allows voters to choose candidates regardless of where they live.

He questions whether a constituency-based system could restrict voters to candidates from their own areas and raises concerns about how electoral boundaries and seats would be allocated, particularly for outer islands and other communities.

Sharma says the electoral system should ensure votes are fairly represented and that people have a genuine choice in who represents them.

Lami resident Tarun Tikaram has questioned the immunity provisions in the proposed Constitution amendments, calling for accountability for wrongdoing and stronger protections for Fijians of Indian descent.

Speaking during the consultation on the Constitution Amendment Bill, Tikaram says if people are found to have done something wrong, they should be subject to litigation or prosecution rather than simply being told not to repeat their actions.

He questions the point of allowing immunity while expecting the country to move forward through reconciliation.

Tikaram also calls for more time to review the proposed Constitution Amendment bill, saying the Constitution is an important document that should not be rushed.

He says people must have the opportunity to understand the document, take ownership of it and uphold its provisions.

He also questioned the legal process for holding a referendum, asking whether the Prime Minister has the authority to call for one, set its date or direct the Electoral Commission to conduct it.

Tikaram urges the committee to carefully examine the relevant laws to avoid potential legal challenges, while asking members to verify whether his interpretation of the process was correct.

He further calls for stronger protections for people born in Fiji, saying he wants everyone to have a sense of belonging and feel that their identity as Fijians is respected.

Insert: Tikaram on Go back to India 16th Oct

Tikaram says he believes iTaukei land and interests are protected through existing laws and institutions,and called for greater consideration of protections for Fijians of Indian Decent.

Prime Minisiter and Joint Parliamentary Select Committee Chair Sitiveni Rabuka says written submissions will be summarised and considered as it reviews the proposed amendments, with some provisions potentially amended depending on the feedback received.

Centre for Democracy and Dialogue (CDD) Director Nilesh Lal warns that bringing the proposed Constitution into force between 24th December and 31st December this year could trigger a constitutional crisis, with Parliament's term expiring while Cabinet continues in power.

Lal says under this scenario, Parliament would expire on 24th December 2026, while Cabinet could continue to exist, creating a situation where elections cannot be held and the current Cabinet remains in power undemocratically.

He describes this as an unacceptable situation that could amount to a self-coup.

Insert:Lal on writ 16th Oct

He warns that this could undermine Fiji's democratic progress, noting that the country has held three successful elections since returning to democracy in 2014 and experienced its first peaceful and enduring transfer of power.

Lal raised these concerns while discussing the proposed Constitution Amendment Bill, saying the Government draft is much closer to the 2013 Constitution than the Constitution Review Commission (CRC) draft in how constitutional power is distributed.

He says the Government draft gives even greater powers to the executive, despite concerns about the concentration of power under the 2013 Constitution.

Lal says the CRC draft included important safeguards that his organisation had publicly welcomed, but these have been removed or weakened in the Government draft.

These include provisions protecting judicial independence, limiting the Prime Minister's influence over appointments of the Chief Justice and President of the Court of Appeal, and capping Cabinet at 15 members.

He also raises concerns about the proposed Senate, saying 18 of its 24 members would be appointed upon Bose Levu Vakaturaga advice.

Lal says moving away from a fully elected legislature is a regression, arguing that lawmaking should be confined to elected representatives.

He says the proposed electoral system is incomplete and open to manipulation because it lacks an overhang mechanism to correct disproportionality arising from communal or constituency seats.

Lal also warns that the proposed Electoral Boundaries Commission could be vulnerable to political influence, as the Prime Minister would appoint its chair and most of its members.

He says this creates a risk of gerrymandering, where electoral boundaries are manipulated to give a political party an advantage, and maintains that a single national constituency would reduce opportunities for such manipulation.

Lal also questions the removal of accountability institutions, including FICAC, saying it should be depoliticised rather than abolished.

He says the Constitution Amendment Bill contains serious drafting problems, including internal inconsistencies, conflicting deadlines, unclear cross-references and transitional provisions, which he describes as dangerous defects in a constitutional document.

Lal further questions whether the public has been given enough time to participate in the process, saying the greater Suva area, with about 300,000 people between Lami and Nausori, has been allocated only about a day to make submissions despite representing more than a third of the population.

He says the CRC draft was made public on 22nd September, followed by the Constitution Amendment Bill on 30th September, and the two documents differ significantly.

Lal says CDD is preparing an approximately 80-page written submission for the Special Parliamentary Committee and questions whether the committee will have enough time to properly consider submissions within the 11-day period allowed.

He says the proposed Constitution contains 230 sections and requires careful examination before decisions are made.

Lawyer Gavin O'Driscoll is calling for the removal of the immunity clause in the proposed Constitution, saying it could encourage people to repeat similar actions in the future.

Speaking before the Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 in Suva, O'Driscoll says Fiji needs to move forward with transparency and accountability.

He says retaining the immunity clause could perpetuate the same system by encouraging people who may be considering similar actions to believe they will also receive immunity.

O'Driscoll also raised concerns about corporal punishment, saying physical punishment is not an effective way to discipline people.

Insert: O'Driscoll on his experience with corporal punishment 16th Oct

He says there is no reason to physically punish anyone in this day and age.

O'Driscoll also stresses the importance of protecting the land rights of iTaukei people, saying they need to feel secure in their land and ownership.

He says ensuring that security would contribute to a more secure country.

O'Driscoll says the relevant provisions need to be closely scrutinised, adding that there are concerns about potential weakening of land rights.

The Government is being urged to provide a clear commitment on when Fijis next general elections will be held and ensure the proposed constitutional changes do not delay the election or extend Parliaments term.

Content creator and influencer Eliki Dakuitoga shared this before the Joint Parliamentary Select Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 at Vunimono Hall in Nausori, calling for stronger legal safeguards to protect the next elections.

Dakuitoga says the existing lawful deadline for the election must be clearly protected in legislation, even if the new Constitution comes into effect earlier than expected.

He is seeking clarification on Section 219, saying the proposed provision should not restart Parliaments four-year term, revive an expired or dissolved Parliament, or allow it to continue without a general election.

Dakuitoga also wants the committee to explain how the proposed Section 211, which allows the President to bring the new Constitution into effect earlier through a proclamation published in the Gazette, would affect the election timetable.

He says the committee must clearly identify which electoral system, nomination requirements, polling rules and deadlines will apply to the next general elections, particularly if constitutional changes take effect while election preparations are already underway.

He is also raising concerns about the proposed emergency powers under Section 201, saying these must not be used to extend Parliaments term or delay an election for political reasons.

Using a severe cyclone as an example, Dakuitoga says there must be clear legal procedures for dealing with genuine disruptions to polling, including who can authorise a delay, the reasons required, independent scrutiny and access to the courts.

He is asking the Government to confirm whether the election will be held in 2026 or January 2027, and if not, to confirm that it will take place no later than 6th February 2027, which he identifies as the last possible date published by election authorities.

Dakuitoga says the preparation of a new Constitution or electoral system should not, by itself, justify extending the current parliamentary term.

He is also calling for the final wording of the relevant constitutional provisions to be published, together with a clear explanation of how the changes would affect the election under either outcome of a possible referendum.

Dakuitoga says the public needs certainty about the election timetable, the applicable laws and the safeguards that will prevent any misuse of constitutional or emergency powers.

People whose families have lived, worked and contributed to Fiji for generations should not have their national identity questioned, says Dr Ahmed Shakeel Shariff, who believes everyone who calls Fiji home deserves to be recognised as a Fijian.

In a video sharing his views on the national identity debate, Dr Shariff says his parents and grandparents worked hard and contributed to the country's development, yet questions remain over their recognition as Fijians.

He says while his mother's siblings chose to move overseas, she remained in Fiji and encouraged her children to build their lives here.

Dr Shariff questions why people who have called Fiji home for generations and contributed to its progress should not be able to share a common national identity.

He stresses that recognising everyone as Fijian should not mean taking away anyone's culture, heritage or traditional identity, but should instead give people a greater sense of belonging.

Dr Shariff also refers to former Fiji 7s coach Ben Ryan, who was given a chiefly title in recognition of his contribution to the country, and questions why families who have contributed to Fiji over generations should not share a common national identity.

He says people from different backgrounds have stood together during difficult times, including the COVID-19 pandemic, showing the strength of unity among communities.

Dr Shariff believes being called Fijian should be a source of pride for everyone who considers Fiji their home, regardless of their background.

He says Fiji must recognise the contributions of all its people and create a country where everyone feels accepted and valued.

Dr Shariff stresses that a shared national identity should bring people together rather than divide them.

A Year 8 student of Korovuto Primary School is calling for stronger action against drug dealers targeting young people, while stressing that education, rehabilitation and family support are equally important in protecting children from drugs.

Speaking during a consultation on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026, Krystal Kumar questioned whether the Government is doing enough to prevent illegal drugs from reaching schools and communities.

Kumar also raised concerns about whether children are being properly educated about the dangers of drugs before they face pressure to try them.

She says fighting drugs requires more than punishment, stressing the need for early prevention, counselling, rehabilitation and effective law enforcement.

The 14-year-old believes young people who make mistakes should not automatically be treated as having no future, but should instead receive guidance and support to make better choices.

The student also called for schools to provide safe learning environments, while families and communities should support young people through sports, education, cultural activities and youth programmes.

Kumar has urged the Joint Committee to carefully consider how the proposed constitutional changes could affect the rights, safety and future of children.

She says any changes to the Constitution should be clearly explained to the public, with young people also given an opportunity to share their views.

The student stressed that although they are only in Year 8, age should not prevent young people from speaking up on issues affecting their future.

Kumar also says protecting children from drugs is a shared responsibility involving the Government, schools, families and communities.

The Mata-ni-Tikina of Namara, Sekaia Mua, is calling for the Great Council of Chiefs to be formally recognised under the proposed constitutional changes, provincial representation in the Senate and the removal of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption.

Mua raised these issues while making his submission to the Joint Parliamentary Select Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 at Vunimono Hall in Nausori.

He says the Great Council of Chiefs plays an important role in protecting iTaukei culture, traditions and the interests of indigenous communities.

Mua believes the removal of the Council in the past weakened the traditional authority and identity of indigenous Fijians, and says its role should be strengthened under the proposed constitutional changes.

He also supports provincial representation in the Senate, saying this would help maintain the traditional chiefly system and ensure provincial voices are represented.

On FICAC, Mua called for the Commission to be removed, arguing that corruption investigations should instead be handled by the Fiji Police Force.

He questioned FICAC's effectiveness and raised concerns about how corruption cases are handled.

Mua also urged the Committee not to rush the proposed referendum, saying people in villages and rural communities must be given enough time to understand the proposed constitutional changes before making a decision.

He says the Government must ensure the concerns of indigenous Fijians are heard and their interests protected when decisions are made about the country's future.

Meanwhile, Mua also highlighted the serious water shortage affecting people in Namara, Tailevu, saying some families have been forced to use a water source previously declared unsafe by the Ministry of Health.

He says villagers have no alternative water supply, while dry conditions continue to affect their access to clean drinking water.

Mua says the Water Authority of Fiji delivered water on one occasion, but no further supplies have been received.

He says residents have been requesting a proper water supply for years and are still waiting for a lasting solution.

Mua, who has served as Mata-ni-Tikina for four years, says villagers continue to ask him when assistance will arrive.

He is calling on the Government and the Water Authority of Fiji to urgently address the shortage, saying rural communities should not be forgotten.

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.

Former Lautoka Mayor Kenneth Low has called for the protection of iTaukei rights, culture and traditions in the Constitution and has also expressed his support for recognising Fiji as a Christian State.

During consultations on proposed constitutional amendments, Low says his family has lived in Fiji for four generations, and he believes the Constitution must safeguard the interests of indigenous Fijians for future generations.

Low says he fully supports the Great Council of Chiefs and believes there is nothing wrong with recognising Fiji as a Christian State because, Fiji's identity is closely linked to the culture, traditions and values of its indigenous people.

He raised concerns about immigration and citizenship, saying the indigenous Fijian population is relatively small and constitutional safeguards are needed to protect their culture, rights and interests as the country's population changes.

Low also expressed support for the government's decision to amend the 2013 Constitution rather than replacing it entirely.

He acknowledged that constitutional reform involves political considerations and differing views however, he says developing a Constitution that will serve future generations should take priority over political considerations, including the timing of the next general election.

Low says the government and the committee should take additional time if necessary to ensure Fiji has a Constitution that will benefit future generations.

He says there are people accusing the government for delaying the elections or possibly trying to get more money stating that is just rubbish talk.

He adds the contributions of Indo-Fijians to the country's development should be recognised alongside the interests of indigenous landowners.

Low says landowners should be given greater opportunities and support to benefit from their land.

He has also called for an increase in the retirement age of judges, saying older professionals still have valuable experience and knowledge to contribute.

Low also raised concerns about corruption, drug-related activities and law enforcement, questioning whether authorities are doing enough to address these issues.