Seruiratu says the name Fijian for all citizens is a unifier

Maintaining Fijian as the common name for all Fijian citizens fosters a sense of belonging among all Fijians.

While speaking during fijivillage Straight Talk with Vijay Narayan, Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu was asked for his thoughts on the current constitution’s use of the term Fijian for all citizens.

Seruiratu acknowledged there are positive aspects of the 2013 Constitution, particularly the designation of all citizens as Fijians.

Seruiratu says while the 2013 Constitution has merit, a perfect constitution remains an aspiration, suggesting that improvements can be made.

He says Fiji should focus on setting a clear direction, establishing the right structures and processes, and embodying the ideal of Fiji as the way the world should be.

According to Seruiratu, the constitution itself is not the issue, rather, the problem lies in political leadership.

He says the 1970 Constitution, which included an entrenched clause to protect iTaukei interests, noting that despite such safeguards, the government was still subject to a takeover.

Seruiratu also highlighted certain aspects of the constitution that need review, and discussions have been ongoing about how to approach these issues in Parliament.