National Federation Party President Pio Tikoduadua says Fiji will only experience genuine implementation of human rights after a change in Government next year.
Tikoduadua says despite the resumption of parliamentary democracy in 2014, there is little respect for human rights because of a Government that has become a law unto itself.
He says in the World Human Freedom Index, Fiji was ranked 77th out of 162 nations in 2020.
Tikoduadua says it is clear that Fiji is an illiberal democracy and Fijians do not have full knowledge about the activities of those who exercise real power because of lack of information and civil liberties.
He says even if knowledge is provided, it is under Standing Orders 51 in Parliament when legislation is rushed and passed with little time provided for intense scrutiny and with only an hour’s debate on the floor of Parliament.
Tikoduadua also says by chance if the people find out the truth and acts of alleged mismanagement or breaches of law through the Opposition or a rare ruling of the judiciary, legislation is introduced in Parliament without notice to change the laws to give legitimacy to breaches that are committed.
He says the most recent being changes to the Electoral Act, Registration of Births, Deaths and Marriages Act and Interpretation Act.
Tikoduadua says following a Court of Disputed Returns ruling that upheld SODELPA MP Niko Nawaikula’s name as being validly registered, the changes to the laws has affected the voter eligibility status of over 100,000 married women.
The NFP President says apart from severely affecting their status as voters, it has many other implications regarding validity of other legal issues and documents.
He says the Attorney-General also attacked lawyers involved in the case and events surrounding this led to the unconstitutional sacking of the Solicitor General, Sharvada Sharma.
Tikoduadua says these are painful examples of the illiberal democracy presided over by a two-men rule that does not give a damn to upholding the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Fiji’s citizens.
He adds when the Opposition and others criticize Government for its policies and proposed legislation, they are hauled to the police station and repeatedly questioned when police would better utilize their time in solving crimes committed against people.
Tikoduadua says the people of Fiji will only enjoy unfettered human rights, fundamental freedoms, and a free and vibrant media that amplifies their voice after getting rid of the Government at the ballot box next year.
We have sent questions to the Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. He has not responded yet
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