This in-depth coverage brings together stories, views and concerns raised during public consultations on the proposed Constitution Amendment Bill 2026 held across Fiji. From constitutional rights and national identity to calls for greater transparency, accountability and public participation, Fijians from different communities and backgrounds have shared their perspectives on the proposed changes.
fijivillage News brings you the key issues, questions and discussions raised during these consultations, highlighting the voices of the people as Fiji considers proposed constitutional changes that could shape the nation's future.
Methodist Church President calls for nightclubs to close at 11pm and proposes National Day of PrayerBy Pita Toganivalu 15/10/2026
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.
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.
Takayawa describes use of Fijian as national identity under 2013 Constitution as technical genocideBy Pita Toganivalu 15/10/2026
Image: Fiji ParliamentFormer 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.
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.
25-year-old says children are not bullocks to be beaten into obedienceBy Nilufa Buksh 15/10/2026
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.
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.
Tikaram questions immunity provisions and calls for protection of Indo-FijiansBy Nilufa Buksh 16/10/2026
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:Â 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.
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:Â 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.
Youths question rushed consultation on Constitution Amendment BillBy Rashika Kumar 16/10/2026
Photo credit: Parliament of the Republic of FijiYoung people have questioned the rushed consultation process for the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026, saying more time is needed for the public to understand the proposed changes and ensure their voices are heard.
While speaking before the Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 at Vunimono Hall in Nausori, Suva resident Lavetanalagi Seru has urged the Government to consider extending the consultation period, saying a process conducted over a few weeks does not do justice to a document that would become the supreme law of the country.
He has also raised concerns about the concentration of political power and has called for a clear separation between the executive, legislature and judiciary.
Seru questioned the proposed role of the Prime Minister in appointing the Chief Justice, opposed the reintroduction of an unelected Senate because of the cost to taxpayers, and supported constituency-based voting, saying it would make Members of Parliament more directly accountable to the people they represent.
He also called for more equitable sharing of mineral resources between the State and landowners, and said prosecutorial powers should remain with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions rather than be used against political opponents.
Former Youth Parliamentarian, Patricia Subhaiya has opposed the proposed introduction of an exception permitting moderate chastisement, saying it could weaken protections against violence and put children’s rights at risk.
Subhaiya says the wording could make it difficult to distinguish discipline from abuse.
She says discipline should prioritise a child’s safety, dignity and well-being, rather than expose children to physical punishment that could cause fear, anxiety, shame and low self-esteem.
She says physical punishment could normalise violence across generations, as children who experience it may come to believe physical force is an acceptable way to resolve conflict.
Another Youth Parliamentarian, Nishaal Narayan has opposed the justification for retaining blanket immunity provisions, asking what had gone wrong during the past four years and whether the provisions were intended to protect something that might happen in the future.
Narayan also recommended that the country's identity remain Fijian.
While speaking on the proposal for Fiji to become a Christian State, Narayan questioned whether this was necessary for people to practise Christian values or whether it was a political move to influence the public.
While quoting Matthew 22:37-39 of the Bible, Narayan says Christian values should be demonstrated through how people treat others, rather than through the religious identity of the State.
He is urging the Commission to protect freedom of religion, freedom of conscience and equal treatment for all citizens, regardless of their beliefs.
Proposed SODELPA candidate, AnnMary Raduva has also questioned whether the consultation process is adequately representing the people of Nausori, referring to the town's population of 57,866.
She asked whether the number of people attending the consultation reflected the wider community and has raised concerns about whether the constitutional amendment process was moving too quickly.
She further questioned whether the rights of persons with disabilities were being adequately considered, asking whether they were represented at the consultation and whether sign language interpreters were available.
Raduva urged the committee to ensure the public had a meaningful opportunity to have its say on the proposed amendments.
The Special Committee's public consultation is currently underway at the Namosi Provincial Council Hall in Navua.
Proposed SODELPA candidate, AnnMary Raduva has also questioned whether the consultation process is adequately representing the people of Nausori, referring to the town's population of 57,866.
Proposed Constitution could trigger crisis if commenced between 24th and 31st December – LalBy Nilufa Buksh 16/10/2026
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.
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.
Retaining immunity clause could encourage future wrongdoing “ O'DriscollBy Nilufa Buksh 17/10/2026
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:Â 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.
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:Â 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.
Social worker and former principal call for iTaukei language in schoolsBy Temalesi Vono 16/10/2026
Social worker Gavula Rakuita and former school principal Govind Singh at the consultation on the Constitution Amendment Bill in Nausori last nightA social worker and a former school principal are calling for iTaukei to be taught in all schools, saying constitutional support for language education is key to preserving indigenous culture and strengthening unity between communities.
Gavula Rakuita and Govind Singh made their submissions during the consultation on the Constitution Amendment Bill at Vunimono in Nausori, where they also raised concerns about children's literacy, equal citizenship and the need for a more inclusive society.
Nainoka is calling for iTaukei to be recognised as Fiji's national language, saying indigenous Fijians had accepted the use of the common name Fijian for all citizens.
Insert: Rakuita - You have embraced our language Oct 16
She is also calling for children to learn in their mother tongue during kindergarten and the early years of primary school, particularly Years 1 and 2.
She adds that she is concerned that some children progress through primary school without developing basic reading and communication skills.
She attributes this partly to education policies that prevented students from repeating classes regardless of their reading proficiency, saying children who struggle to read can continue through the school system without receiving the support they need.
She believes these challenges can contribute to children dropping out of school and becoming vulnerable to social problems.
Nainoka also expressed support for corporal punishment, saying some members of her community believe in it because of their religious beliefs.
Meanwhile, Govind Singh, who is also the President of the School Management Association of Fiji, says he has been advocating for iTaukei language education for more than 30 years.
He says teaching iTaukei in schools would give children from other communities the opportunity to understand the language, culture and way of life of indigenous Fijians.
Singh says many Indo-Fijians have not had adequate opportunities to learn iTaukei, making it difficult for them to communicate confidently with indigenous communities and contribute to discussions at provincial council meetings.
He says the Constitution should provide a foundation for policies that ensure iTaukei language education is implemented, warning that the opportunity to improve understanding between communities has been overlooked for too long.
Singh says learning another community's language can open the door to a better understanding of its culture and values.
He is also calling for the Constitution to guarantee equal citizenship, saying no citizen should be considered more or less Fijian because of ancestry, race or colour.
Singh says the Constitution should protect people from racial discrimination and hostility, uphold freedom of religion and belief, respect cultural and linguistic identities, and encourage cooperation between communities and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
Singh also raised concerns about the pace of the constitutional reform process, saying the Government should allow sufficient time for public discussion and consideration of the Constitution Review Commission's recommendations.
He says the process of developing the Constitution is as important as the document itself, and people should be given enough time to discuss the proposed changes and help shape a Constitution that reflects their aspirations.
A social worker and a former school principal are calling for iTaukei to be taught in all schools, saying constitutional support for language education is key to preserving indigenous culture and strengthening unity between communities.
Gavula Rakuita and Govind Singh made their submissions during the consultation on the Constitution Amendment Bill at Vunimono in Nausori, where they also raised concerns about children's literacy, equal citizenship and the need for a more inclusive society.
Nainoka is calling for iTaukei to be recognised as Fiji's national language, saying indigenous Fijians had accepted the use of the common name Fijian for all citizens.
Insert: Rakuita - You have embraced our language Oct 16
She is also calling for children to learn in their mother tongue during kindergarten and the early years of primary school, particularly Years 1 and 2.
She adds that she is concerned that some children progress through primary school without developing basic reading and communication skills.
She attributes this partly to education policies that prevented students from repeating classes regardless of their reading proficiency, saying children who struggle to read can continue through the school system without receiving the support they need.
She believes these challenges can contribute to children dropping out of school and becoming vulnerable to social problems.
Nainoka also expressed support for corporal punishment, saying some members of her community believe in it because of their religious beliefs.
Meanwhile, Govind Singh, who is also the President of the School Management Association of Fiji, says he has been advocating for iTaukei language education for more than 30 years.
He says teaching iTaukei in schools would give children from other communities the opportunity to understand the language, culture and way of life of indigenous Fijians.
Singh says many Indo-Fijians have not had adequate opportunities to learn iTaukei, making it difficult for them to communicate confidently with indigenous communities and contribute to discussions at provincial council meetings.
He says the Constitution should provide a foundation for policies that ensure iTaukei language education is implemented, warning that the opportunity to improve understanding between communities has been overlooked for too long.
Singh says learning another community's language can open the door to a better understanding of its culture and values.
He is also calling for the Constitution to guarantee equal citizenship, saying no citizen should be considered more or less Fijian because of ancestry, race or colour.
Singh says the Constitution should protect people from racial discrimination and hostility, uphold freedom of religion and belief, respect cultural and linguistic identities, and encourage cooperation between communities and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
Singh also raised concerns about the pace of the constitutional reform process, saying the Government should allow sufficient time for public discussion and consideration of the Constitution Review Commission's recommendations.
He says the process of developing the Constitution is as important as the document itself, and people should be given enough time to discuss the proposed changes and help shape a Constitution that reflects their aspirations.
Dakuitoga calls for clear commitment on next general elections dateBy Pita Toganivalu 16/10/2026
Source: Parliament of the Republic of FijiThe 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.
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.
Dr Bhim challenges Rabuka to seek pardon while Nunu asks Govt to reconsider immunity, Singh opposes SenateBy Rashika Kumar 16/10/2026
Source: Parliament of the Republic of FijiPrime Minister, if you believe you require immunity, or if certain members of your Cabinet require it, I ask you to list the activities for which immunity is needed and apply to the Mercy Commission for the President to grant a pardon for those activities.
University lecturer Dr Mosmi Bhim made this call to Prime Minister and Chair of the Joint Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 Sitiveni Rabuka at Vunimono Hall in Nausori, saying the public deserves to know which activities require protection.
Dr Bhim says identifying the activities and seeking pardons would provide a transparent way of dealing with the matter, rather than granting broad constitutional immunity.
She says the proposed protection would cover the offices of the President and Prime Minister, Cabinet, the military, Police, Corrections Service, Judiciary, Public Service and other public office-holders until the first sitting of Parliament under the new Constitution, expected in 2028.
Dr Bhim has also questioned what wrongdoing these institutions have committed that requires immunity, adding blanket protection risks damaging their reputations by creating the impression that they have something to hide.
She has also made a submission to remove the immunity clause, stressing that democracy requires accountability, transparency and equality before the law.
Dr Bhim warns that granting immunity to the Prime Minister and Cabinet until 2028 would undermine Fijis transition to democracy by placing some people beyond public accountability.
The academic is also calling for the consultation process to be extended so that a wider part of our country can take part in it.
She further says the proposed emergency powers that would allow the House of Representatives to extend its term by up to 12 months if its term expires during a state of emergency.
Dr Bhim says the provision could be misused to keep the Government in power.
Dr Bhim has also questioned how the Government would ensure accountability when 14 of the 23 members of the Senate would be nominated by the Bose Levu Vakaturaga.
She says some chiefs supported previous coups and has questioned what would prevent that from happening again.
SODELPA's proposed candidate Pateresio Nunu has also called on the Government to reconsider retaining immunity, saying the Constitution Review Commission had proposed removing the provisions while recognising the legal complexities and the need to consider reconciliation and alternative remedies.
He says continued constitutional protection raises questions about equality before the law, justice for victims, accountability for unconstitutional conduct and the prevention of future coups.
Nunu is recommending publishing an independent legal assessment of existing immunity and the lawful options for reform, alongside clarification on whether the Governments proposal preserves existing protection or creates additional immunity.
He is also calling for safeguards against future military intervention, an express prohibition on unlawful government takeovers without automatic constitutional protection, and arrangements for truth-telling, reconciliation, reparations and remedies for victims.
Nunu, who is a fourth-generation descendant of Melanesian labourers from Malaita in the Solomon Islands, is also seeking constitutional recognition of Fijis Melanesian descendants and other historically marginalised communities.
He says their contributions should be acknowledged through stronger protection for cultural and linguistic identities, fair access to education, housing, employment and essential services, and participation in national policy decisions.
Nunu is also urging the Government to explain significant departures from the Constitution Review Commissions recommendations.
Nunu says any referendum must be lawful, transparent and independently administered, with enough time for citizens to understand and assess the proposed changes.
We Unite Fiji Party proposed candidate Sandeep Singh says reinstating the Senate with a total of 78 legislators would place an unnecessary financial burden on taxpayers through salaries, allowances, staffing and administration.
He says Fiji should retain a single elected chamber and strengthen scrutiny through parliamentary committees, independent expertise and meaningful public consultation.
Singh says the Great Council of Chiefs should focus on cultural leadership, community welfare and national development, independent of party politics.
He is also encouraging minority communities to establish representative councils, with these bodies and the Great Council of Chiefs serving as independent advisers to the Government.
Singh also says the Constitution should acknowledge God and recognise Christianity historical contribution alongside those of other faiths, while protecting equal citizenship and freedom of conscience.
He proposes replacing the reference to Christianity and family values with religion and family values, or a list of shared principles including truthfulness, compassion, justice, integrity, service and respect for human dignity.
Singh also wants an explicit provision stating that Fiji has no official religion and that religious belief must not be a requirement for citizenship, public office or public service.
He also calls for Hindi to be specifically recognised in the Constitutions language provisions, alongside the protections proposed for iTaukei and Rotuman.
Singh also proposes a legal framework allowing the Government to address idle land, including freehold land, to support national development.
He says large areas should not remain unused indefinitely while communities need land for productive purposes.
Public consultations on the Constitution Amendment Bill continues in Nadi and Lautoka tomorrow.
The academic is also calling for the consultation process to be extended so that a wider part of our country can take part in it.
She further says the proposed emergency powers that would allow the House of Representatives to extend its term by up to 12 months if its term expires during a state of emergency.
Dr Bhim says the provision could be misused to keep the Government in power.
Serua Province recommends iTaukei Fiji name, State to be co-owners of resources, and Vosa Vakaviti to be compulsoryBy Navitalai Naivalurua 17/10/2026
The people of Serua are recommending that the indigenous people of Fiji should be known as iTaukei Fiji or Fijian iTaukei and not iTaukeinivanua as proposed by the draft Constitution, Fiji should incorporate Christian concept and that the Bill of Rights should be renamed as Bill of Rights and Responsibilities.
They are also recommending that iTaukei language be compulsory from kindergarten and the State to be co-owners of land and resources with the indigenous Fijians.
While making submissions before the Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill at the Namosi Provincial Council Hall in Navua, Serua Provincial Council Chairman Tevita Boseiwaqa says he believes the word Itaukeinivanua is inconsistent with the Constitution because in iTaukei language, Itaukeinivanua means land and people ownership but some of things is not solely owned by the people but by the State.
He says they also support the Christian concept because it links to the past with Christianity being the reason for the change in the morale of our elders.
On the Bill of Rights, Boseiwaqa says many people are only focused on the rights but not on the responsibility.
He says they are hopeful that the Committee can consider amending the Bill of Rights to Bill of Rights and Responsibilities so people know that with rights come responsibilities.
The Chairman also recommended that the iTaukei language be made compulsory from kindergarten and not only in Primary Schools because children nowadays are forgetting our values and cultures.
He adds that he supports the idea of joint ownership by the government and the landowners because many of the fruits from development are going to the State then the people.
Boseiwaqa says if its a 50/50 partnership, then both will gain from our resources.
He adds that Government can continue to manage the resources but there should be a partnership with the land and resource owners.
Buretu Village woman calls for equality and peace, questions Christian State proposalBy Rashika Kumar 17/10/2026
Source: Fiji ParliamentWe cannot say that we keep on enforcing our Christian state, but some of our iTaukei Christian boys are burning Hindu temples and calling them names. That is not equality.
That is the concern raised by Amalagi Kolikata of Buretu Village while making a submission to the Joint Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 at Vunimono Hall in Nausori.
Kolikata is urging political leaders to promote peace and prioritise the basic needs of the people ahead of the next general election.
She says people want progress and growth for their children and families, regardless of whether they live in rural or urban communities.
Kolikata believes the current political focus will not help the people at this point, saying leaders should instead address issues affecting their daily lives.
She says the priorities should include crime prevention, healthcare and education, including ensuring children return to school and have access to tertiary education.
Kolikata also believes addressing these issues would encourage more people to participate and show their support.
She also raised concerns about crime-related content shared on social media, saying children could be exposed to such content through their parents accounts and develop similar views.
Kolikata called on political leaders to promote peace and work towards a Fiji envisioned by its ancestors, where no one is left out.
The consultation continues in Nadi and Lautoka today.
We cannot say that we keep on enforcing our Christian state, but some of our iTaukei Christian boys are burning Hindu temples and calling them names. That is not equality.
That is the concern raised by Amalagi Kolikata of Buretu Village while making a submission to the Joint Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 at Vunimono Hall in Nausori.
Kolikata is urging political leaders to promote peace and prioritise the basic needs of the people ahead of the next general election.
She says people want progress and growth for their children and families, regardless of whether they live in rural or urban communities.
Kolikata believes the current political focus will not help the people at this point, saying leaders should instead address issues affecting their daily lives.
She says the priorities should include crime prevention, healthcare and education, including ensuring children return to school and have access to tertiary education.
Kolikata also believes addressing these issues would encourage more people to participate and show their support.
She also raised concerns about crime-related content shared on social media, saying children could be exposed to such content through their parents accounts and develop similar views.
Kolikata called on political leaders to promote peace and work towards a Fiji envisioned by its ancestors, where no one is left out.
The consultation continues in Nadi and Lautoka today.
Healthcare should be accessible to everyone - KumarBy Mansi Chand 17/10/2026
Image: Supplied
Pacific Specialist Healthcare founder and CEO Parvish Kumar says healthcare should not be a privilege reserved for the wealthy, but should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or financial circumstances.
Speaking at the two-day PSH Hospitals Scientific Conference at the Shangri-La Fijian Resort in Sigatoka, Kumar says the hospital was established with the aim of providing inclusive healthcare for Fiji and the Pacific.
He says the institution also focuses on advancing medical technology, developing skilled healthcare professionals and promoting universal health coverage.
Kumar stresses that investing in modern medical equipment alone is not enough to improve healthcare without also training people to use it effectively.
Meanwhile, Minister for Health Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu says Fiji needs to strengthen its healthcare services and work towards becoming a regional centre for specialist medical treatment.
Dr Lalabalavu says cooperation between the Government and private healthcare providers is essential to improving access to quality healthcare.
He says Fiji continues to rely heavily on imported medicines, particularly from countries such as India, and believes establishing local pharmaceutical manufacturing could help meet the needs of Fiji and other Pacific Island countries.
The Minister says the Government cannot provide all healthcare services on its own and has welcomed private sector investment in specialist treatment, advanced medical equipment and professional training.
He has also acknowledged PSH's contribution to improving specialist healthcare services in Fiji.
Pacific Specialist Healthcare founder and CEO Parvish Kumar says healthcare should not be a privilege reserved for the wealthy, but should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or financial circumstances.
Speaking at the two-day PSH Hospitals Scientific Conference at the Shangri-La Fijian Resort in Sigatoka, Kumar says the hospital was established with the aim of providing inclusive healthcare for Fiji and the Pacific.
He says the institution also focuses on advancing medical technology, developing skilled healthcare professionals and promoting universal health coverage.
Kumar stresses that investing in modern medical equipment alone is not enough to improve healthcare without also training people to use it effectively.
Meanwhile, Minister for Health Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu says Fiji needs to strengthen its healthcare services and work towards becoming a regional centre for specialist medical treatment.
Dr Lalabalavu says cooperation between the Government and private healthcare providers is essential to improving access to quality healthcare.
He says Fiji continues to rely heavily on imported medicines, particularly from countries such as India, and believes establishing local pharmaceutical manufacturing could help meet the needs of Fiji and other Pacific Island countries.
The Minister says the Government cannot provide all healthcare services on its own and has welcomed private sector investment in specialist treatment, advanced medical equipment and professional training.
He has also acknowledged PSH's contribution to improving specialist healthcare services in Fiji.
Year 8 student calls for stronger action to protect children from drugsBy Mansi Chand 17/10/2026
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.
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.
Namara representative calls for GCC recognition, provincial Senate representation and removal of FICACBy Antornette Vuniuca 17/10/2026
[Image: Parliament of the Republic of Fiji]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 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.
University of Fiji Law students urge Govt to abandon Constitution Amendment BillBy Karishma Kumari 17/10/2026
The University of Fiji and its law students have urged the Government to abandon the Constitution Amendment Bill 2026, raising concerns about its drafting, human rights protections and the lack of a clear justification for introducing a new constitution.
Presenting a submission to the Parliamentary Select Committee on the Constitution Amendment Bill 2026, University of Fiji Vice Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem says the Government must first explain why Fiji needs a new constitution before determining what it should contain.
Professor Shameem says the proposed amendments contain numerous typographical and grammatical errors, internal inconsistencies and unclear provisions that make the document difficult to understand.
She presented the submission on behalf of the university, with contributions from constitutional law students and members of its legal team.
Professor Shameem also questioned whether Fiji needs a supreme and entrenched constitution, arguing that previous constitutions had been accompanied by political instability and disagreements over their provisions.
She suggested that stronger domestic legislation, supported by international law, particularly international human rights law, could provide an alternative approach.
She also raised concerns about the drafting of the proposed Bill, saying its explanatory notes did not accurately reflect what the clauses stated.
Professor Shameem says the number of human rights provisions appears to have decreased from about 37 under the 2013 Constitution to around 30 in the proposed draft.
She further raised concerns about Clause 41C, which refers to the chastisement of children.
Professor Shameem questioned the absence of a definition of “chastisement” in the interpretation section, asking what the term would permit in practice and how the proposed reference to moderate chastisement would be interpreted.
She says the lack of clarity could lead to different interpretations of what is acceptable, with potentially harmful consequences.
Professor Shameem urged the committee to take the law students’ work seriously, stressing that Fiji must establish both why it needs a constitution and what kind of constitution would best serve all Fijians.
She says any future constitution should be built around principles that people with differing views can agree on.
If we are all equal in the eyes of God, why change that in the Constitution - KumarBy Mansi Chand 18/10/2026
If the Bible says we are all equal in the eyes of the Lord, why are we changing that in the Constitution.
This
question was raised by Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry
President, Lawrence Kumar during the Constitution (Amendment)
Bill 2026 consultation at Nadi Civic Centre.
Kumar
has urged the Joint Committee to reconsider the proposed
constitutional amendment.
He
is calling for Fiji to remain a secular state, raising concerns that
the proposed Constitution places greater emphasis on Christianity.
Kumar
says although he is a Christian himself, his religious beliefs do not
give him the right to impose his faith on others.
He
stresses that everyone should be treated equally under the
Constitution, regardless of their religious beliefs.
This question was raised by Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry President, Lawrence Kumar during the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 consultation at Nadi Civic Centre.
Kumar has urged the Joint Committee to reconsider the proposed constitutional amendment.
He is calling for Fiji to remain a secular state, raising concerns that the proposed Constitution places greater emphasis on Christianity.
Kumar says although he is a Christian himself, his religious beliefs do not give him the right to impose his faith on others.
He stresses that everyone should be treated equally under the Constitution, regardless of their religious beliefs.
PM assures public their views on Constitution Bill will be consideredBy Mansi Chand 18/10/2026
Image: Fiji GovernmentPrime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has assured members of the public that their submissions on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 will be considered by the Special Committee before the Bill proceeds to its third reading in Parliament next month.
Speaking during the public consultation at the Nadi Civic Centre Hall, Rabuka, who chairs the Special Committee says the views and concerns raised will be discussed during the Committee's deliberations later this month.
The consultation provided an opportunity for members of the public to ask questions, express their views and make submissions on the proposed constitutional amendments.
Rabuka thanked those who attended and contributed to the discussions, including those who made written submissions, while acknowledging the importance of public participation in the constitutional review process.
The next public consultation will be held tomorrow at the Ba Market Hall from 10am to 1pm.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has assured members of the public that their submissions on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 will be considered by the Special Committee before the Bill proceeds to its third reading in Parliament next month.
Speaking during the public consultation at the Nadi Civic Centre Hall, Rabuka, who chairs the Special Committee says the views and concerns raised will be discussed during the Committee's deliberations later this month.
The consultation provided an opportunity for members of the public to ask questions, express their views and make submissions on the proposed constitutional amendments.
Rabuka thanked those who attended and contributed to the discussions, including those who made written submissions, while acknowledging the importance of public participation in the constitutional review process.
The next public consultation will be held tomorrow at the Ba Market Hall from 10am to 1pm.
Sporting body Chair leaves Fiji amid investigation into alleged sexual harassmentBy Mikaele Liga 18/10/2026
The Chairman of a sporting body who has been under police investigation over alleged sexual harassment has left Fiji to join his team in Australia ahead of a major tournament.
Police have confirmed to fijivillage News that the person of interest has been interviewed and released, with investigators now compiling the investigation file to be forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for independent legal advice.
The victim has reached out to the Fiji Women's Crisis Centre for assistance in seeking justice.
It is understood that the person of interest provided police with a medical sheet, prompting investigators to put the case on hold until he recovered.
He was later allowed to join the team in Australia just days before a tournament.
The victim's family is now questioning how the investigation was handled and why the person of interest was allowed to leave the country while the allegations remain under investigation.
The family is also seeking clarity on whether he will return to Fiji to answer questions relating to the allegations.
Stay with us for updates.
The Chairman of a sporting body who has been under police investigation over alleged sexual harassment has left Fiji to join his team in Australia ahead of a major tournament.
Police have confirmed to fijivillage News that the person of interest has been interviewed and released, with investigators now compiling the investigation file to be forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for independent legal advice.
The victim has reached out to the Fiji Women's Crisis Centre for assistance in seeking justice.
It is understood that the person of interest provided police with a medical sheet, prompting investigators to put the case on hold until he recovered.
He was later allowed to join the team in Australia just days before a tournament.
The victim's family is now questioning how the investigation was handled and why the person of interest was allowed to leave the country while the allegations remain under investigation.
The family is also seeking clarity on whether he will return to Fiji to answer questions relating to the allegations.
Stay with us for updates.
Fiji Constitution Hub launched to help people access critical information on ConstitutionBy Priya Nand 18/10/2026
People will now have easier access to critical information and documents on Fiji’s constitutional review process, with the launch of the Fiji Constitution Hub aimed at helping them make informed and meaningful submissions on the proposed constitutional changes.
The Hub was launched by the Centre for Democracy and Dialogue to address the lack of readily available information amid the fast and furious constitution review process currently unfolding in Fiji.
CDD Executive Director Nilesh Lal says people are being expected to make submissions on the Constitution Amendement Bill, but often do not have access to the critical information.
INSERT: Lal on Constitution Hub 16th Oct
Lal says many people, including technically savvy individuals, have told him that they have not seen either the Government’s draft constitution or the Constitution Review Commission's draft.
He says the hub is not just a repository of documents, but also a digital constitutional library, a historical archive, a research platform and a civic education platform.
He says it brings together Fiji’s constitutions and constitutional drafts, documents relating to the review process, timelines, historical records, plain-language explainers and CDD’s constitutional analysis and publications.
Lal says the platform also provides comparative information on previous constitution-making processes, including the consultations undertaken, the number of submissions received and the outcomes.
He says this information is critical in allowing people to assess the legitimacy of the current process based on facts rather than politically motivated information.
Lal says the hub is particularly important given the limited time available for public consultations, with barely 10 to 11 days for people to make submissions.
He says the consultation process started yesterday, while the third reading of the Constitution Amendment Bill is planned for 2nd November.
He says CDD is proposing at least six months of meaningful public consultation on the bill and at least 12 weeks for referendum preparation and campaigning.
Lal says the constitutional requirement that at least 30 days must pass between the second and third readings does not mean Parliament must proceed with the third reading within 30 days.
He says the 30 days is the minimum period, not the maximum.
He says the hub also allows users to examine Fiji’s constitution-making history and compare the 1997 and 2013 processes with the proposed 2026 process.
He says Fiji has had four constitutions in just over 50 years of post-independence history and is now well on its way to having a fifth.
The hub includes the 1970, 1990, 1997 and 2013 constitutions, as well as the Constitution Review Commission's draft and the Government’s proposed draft.
Lal says the platform is particularly useful at a time when people are forming opinions based on what others are saying and writing on social media.
He says some long essays being shared on social media are generated using artificial intelligence tools, with people sometimes not understanding the technical material they are sharing.
Lal says in a context where misinformation is rampant, resources containing official information and key documents become very useful.
The Fiji Constitution Hub is now available at:cdd.org.fj/constitution
SODELPA warns proposed constitutional changes could delay elections by up to 12 monthsBy Antornette Vuniuca 18/10/2026
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.
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.
Remove immunity provisions to prevent future coups – NataBy Karishma Kumari 19/10/2026
Josefa Nata who was sentenced to life in prison for treason after the 2000 coup led by George Speight and later pardoned after 23 years, is calling on the Parliamentary Special Committee reviewing Fiji's Constitution Amendment Bill to remove the immunity provisions, warning that retaining them could encourage future coups and undermine national unity.
While making his submission before Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and members of the Committee, Nata says the proposed Constitution is a significant improvement on the 2013 Constitution however, further changes are needed.
He says his call to remove immunity is not driven by revenge against those involved in past coups, but by the need to prevent similar events in the future.
Nata says he does not want people prosecuted for their involvement in past political upheavals and believes Fiji must find a way to forgive and heal.
However, he says future coup makers must never be granted immunity, regardless of how long it takes to bring them before the courts.
He proposes including a commitment in the Constitution's preamble that those responsible for illegally removing elected governments will not be granted immunity and will face trial.
Nata also raises concerns that retaining constitutional immunity could send a message to Indo-Fijians, particularly descendants of the Girmitiyas, that Fiji is not a safe place for them.
He says refusing to remove immunity fails to acknowledge the fear, anxiety and insecurity experienced by communities affected by previous coups.
He further argues that the economic and social costs of coups extend beyond damage to property, businesses and livelihoods, contributing to distrust, racial divisions and insecurity.
Nata also questions the proposed expansion of immunity to cover a wider range of public officials, saying this could encourage future attempts to seize power illegally.
He urges the Committee to take seriously the position of Republic of Fiji Military Forces Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, who he says has opposed retaining the immunity provisions.
Nata also expresses support for considering disclosure-based immunity through an expanded Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
He says removing immunity alone will not end Fiji's coup culture, and that historical grievances, economic inequality and divisions between communities must also be addressed.
Nata calls for stronger partnerships between iTaukei landowners and Indo-Fijian businesses to help reduce economic disparities and promote national unity.
He also proposes that the iTaukei language be taught as a compulsory second language in schools, describing it as a potential unifying force for the country.
He also suggests replacing the reference to a secular state with wording recognising Fiji as a nation under God.
Nata further proposes an elected Senate, an elected President and Vice-President, and consideration of a presidential system that would separate executive and legislative powers.
On the tenure of the Prime Minister, he says there should be a limit on the number of terms a person can serve.
While acknowledging the Constitution Review Commission's recommendation of two terms, Nata suggests that three terms could be reasonable to allow capable younger leaders to continue serving.
He stresses that Fiji must learn from its political history and take meaningful steps to prevent future coups while strengthening reconciliation, fairness and national unity.
Former Lautoka Mayor calls for protection of iTaukei rights while supporting recognition of Fiji as a Christian StateBy Karishma Kumari 19/10/2026
Source: Fiji GovernmentFormer 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.
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.
Why is there a rush to change the Constitution - Ashneel SudhakarBy Rashika Kumar 19/10/2026
Photo: Fiji GovernmentThe proposed 2026 Constitution could face the same criticism as the 2013 Constitution if it is rushed through without sufficient time for consultation and review.
Former FijiFirst Minister and Ba lawyer Ashneel Sudhakar has raised this concern while making a submission to the Joint Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 at the Ba Market Bure today.
Sudhakar has questioned why the Government is rushing the process, saying more time is needed to review the draft, explain its provisions to the public and allow people to make informed decisions.
He says one of the major problems that people had with the 2013 Constitution was that it was very rushed and one or two people just made this Constitution.
Sudhakar asks are we not doing the same thing with the Bill, adding that we might end up with a similar document that will need to be reviewed after a few years.
He further says he has no personal objection to recognising Christianity, given that it is followed by the majority of the population.
However, he says this will be in conflict with Section 4 and Section 25 of the Constitution, which do speak of religious freedom.
He also questioned whether the inclusion of Christianity could create risks for religious minorities under future governments.
Sudhakar says the Chair of the Committee Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is a noble leader and in his time, we won't see persecution, but tomorrow, some other leader who comes into power, who is not as noble as the Prime Minister, might use the same sections to persecute the minorities.
He says if Christianity is to be recognised in the Constitution, the relevant provisions on religious freedom needs to be adjusted to ensure they are consistent.
The lawyer further says there needs to be a clear distinction between identifying the indigenous iTaukei people and describing the citizenship of all people who hold Fijian nationality.
He says the term 'Fijian' should be reserved for indigenous people when referring to ethnicity, while all citizens should be recognised as Fijian in their passports, adding we cannot steal the Fijian reference to the indigenous race of this country.
He has also highlighted that in all the constitutions, there has been a lot of reference and sympathy for the people who are incarcerated, people who have been charged by the police, and people who are in custody.
Sudhakar says many people have to lock themselves in their homes by 6pm and stay behind bars to protect themselves from break-ins, thefts and robberies.
He suggests that the Bill of Rights should include provisions for compensation for victims of crime, as similar arrangements are in place in the United States and Canada.
The former Lands Minister also says that iTaukei land must remain protected, but he has also called for safeguards for State land.
He says we have seen previously that iTaukei lands have been transferred to the State and then converted to freehold, stressing that it should be stopped.
Sudhakar, however, says there should be some protection for State land and that if the 50 percent of land that is underutilised were put to use, the problems being faced could be addressed.
He has also highlighted that teaching conversational Hindi should not compromise the teaching of pure Hindi, which is important for future generations to understand Hindu religious texts.
The lawyer has also questioned the provision for 55 seats in Parliament, comprising 33 constituency seats and 22 seats allocated through a party-list system.
He says voters could directly choose candidates in the constituency seats but might not know which individuals would enter Parliament through the closed party list.
Sudhakar says the 22 members on the closed party list could enter Parliament by default, even though the public may not know who they are or may not want them in Parliament.
He has asked the Committee to clarify how the proposed system would work and whether it could diminish the democratic rights of voters.
He also raised concerns about the time required to draw constituency boundaries, saying population movements across the country could make the process lengthy.
The former Minister has also questioned why all 23 senators would be appointed, with 14 appointed by the Bose Levu Vakaturaga, six by the Prime Minister, two by the Opposition and one by the Rotuma Council.
He suggests that senators should also be elected, saying this could allow capable and educated people, including chiefs who might not be represented through existing appointment processes, to serve in the Senate.
Sudhakar has also highlighted that there are more than 100 amendments in the Constitution that will require a 'yes' or 'no' vote in a referendum, however, a person may agree with 10 of them and not agree with 90.
He suggests putting every proposed amendment to a separate referendum, adding that it would be a tedious process, but has questioned how people could reject a specific provision if they were required to vote on the entire document as a whole.
Sudhakar has also questioned that whether there is sufficient time to complete the constitutional review, draw constituency boundaries, conduct the referendum and ensure the public understood the proposed changes.
Consultations on the Bill will be held at George Shiu Raj Hall in Rakiraki from 10am to midday and at Rakiraki Village Hall in Navutulevu from 4pm to 6pm tomorrow.
Consultations will be held at Wailotua Village Hall in Wainibuka from 10am to midday and at Korovou Primary School Hall from 3pm to 5pm on Wednesday.
Ba contributes significantly to Fiji's economy but lacks political power – LewaqaiBy Karishma Kumari 19/10/2026
The province of Ba contributes significantly to Fiji's economy but lacks political representation, and it is time for the wealth generated from the province's resources to benefit its people.
This was highlighted by pilot Marika Lewaqai while making his submission during consultations on the Constitution Amendment Bill in Nadi, where he highlighted that Ba is Fiji's largest province and is home to major economic contributors, including the tourism industry, gold mining operations and the Nadi International Airport.
He says despite these contributions, he did not see anyone from Ba represented among the Members of Parliament or Cabinet Ministers on the consultation panel.
He says after 56 years of independence and decades of contributing to nation-building, it is time for some of the wealth generated from the province to be returned to its people.
Lewaqai raised concerns about poverty and the lack of economic benefits reaching traditional resource owners.
He says rocks sourced from rivers belonging to the people of Sabeto were used to establish the foundations of major developments, including Denarau, Fantasy Island and Naisoso Island.
Lewaqai questioned on what the people of Sabeto have received in return, saying these developments continue to prosper while resource owners are still struggling with poverty.
He says this imbalance needs to be addressed, particularly when communities have contributed their land and natural resources towards Fiji's economic development.
Lewaqai also commended the Coalition Government for bringing forward the proposed amendments to the 2013 Constitution.
He recalls that when he stood as a candidate in the 2014 general elections, he was asked during an interview about his views on the 2013 Constitution.
Lewaqai says he described the Constitution as fundamentally flawed and had expressed his intention to amend it if elected to Parliament.
He says he is thankful that proposed constitutional changes are now being considered after many years.
Lewaqai called for the repeal of the 2013 Constitution, particularly referring to Section 2, but recommended that Chapter 10 be retained.
He also recommended that Christianity be retained or recognised in the Constitution, expressing that removing Christianity from the Constitution would undermine spiritual values that he believes are important to Fiji.
Lewaqai urges the consultation panel to take his observations and recommendations into consideration as part of the constitutional amendment process.
This was highlighted by pilot Marika Lewaqai while making his submission during consultations on the Constitution Amendment Bill in Nadi, where he highlighted that Ba is Fiji's largest province and is home to major economic contributors, including the tourism industry, gold mining operations and the Nadi International Airport.
He says despite these contributions, he did not see anyone from Ba represented among the Members of Parliament or Cabinet Ministers on the consultation panel.
Lewaqai raised concerns about poverty and the lack of economic benefits reaching traditional resource owners.
He says rocks sourced from rivers belonging to the people of Sabeto were used to establish the foundations of major developments, including Denarau, Fantasy Island and Naisoso Island.
Lewaqai questioned on what the people of Sabeto have received in return, saying these developments continue to prosper while resource owners are still struggling with poverty.
He says this imbalance needs to be addressed, particularly when communities have contributed their land and natural resources towards Fiji's economic development.
Lewaqai also commended the Coalition Government for bringing forward the proposed amendments to the 2013 Constitution.
He recalls that when he stood as a candidate in the 2014 general elections, he was asked during an interview about his views on the 2013 Constitution.
Lewaqai says he described the Constitution as fundamentally flawed and had expressed his intention to amend it if elected to Parliament.
He says he is thankful that proposed constitutional changes are now being considered after many years.
Lewaqai called for the repeal of the 2013 Constitution, particularly referring to Section 2, but recommended that Chapter 10 be retained.
He also recommended that Christianity be retained or recognised in the Constitution, expressing that removing Christianity from the Constitution would undermine spiritual values that he believes are important to Fiji.
Lewaqai urges the consultation panel to take his observations and recommendations into consideration as part of the constitutional amendment process.
Ligabalavu calls for review of Fijian identity and Christianity in ConstitutionBy Rashika Kumar 20/10/2026
Photo: Fiji GovernmentWe must be able to discuss our national identity alongside the unique history, culture, customs, traditions and rights of the iTaukei people while respecting the identities and rights of all other communities.
That is the view of Luciane Ligabalavu, an Executive of the International Women Peace Group, while making a submission to the Joint Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 at the Ba Market Bure.
Ligabalavu says there needs to be a clear distinction between Fijian as an ethnic identity and Fijian as a term for citizenship.
She says the people must be given a meaningful opportunity to determine the constitutional arrangements under which they wish to live.
Ligabalavu also raised concerns about the removal of the express recognition of Christianity from the preamble of the 1997 Constitution.
She says Christianity has played a significant role in Fiji's history, communities and the values by which many people live.
The Executive says recognizing Christianity's foundational influence does not require us to deny the religious freedom of others.
She says Fiji can honour its Christian heritage while continuing to welcome and respect people of every race, religion and belief.
Ligabalavu says the spirit of Christ reminds people that their differences should never destroy their unity, and they should find common ground in love, mutual respect and a shared desire for peace.
Consultations on the Bill will be held at George Shiu Raj Hall in Rakiraki from 10am to midday and at Rakiraki Village Hall in Navutulevu from 4pm to 6pm tomorrow.
Consultations will be held at Wailotua Village Hall in Wainibuka from 10am to midday and at Korovou Primary School Hall from 3pm to 5pm on Wednesday.
Ba businessman lodges cyberbullying complaint against Bainivalu, Minister denies intent to ridiculeBy Temalesi Vono 20/10/2026
Picture: Fiji GovernmentBa business owner Sevanaia Levuidali says he has lodged a complaint against Minister for Fisheries Alitia Bainivalu, accusing her of cyberbullying after she posted a video of him falling off a chair while making a submission to the Joint Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 202 in Ba.
Police have also confirmed to fijivillage News that Levuidali filed a report at the Ba Police Station this morning against the Minister for cyber-bullying.
Speaking to fijivillage News, Levuidali questioned why Bainivalu had shared the video on facebook, which was taken from a Fiji Government livestream of the public consultation at the Ba Market Bure.
Levuidali says he does not understand why Bainivalu chose to post the part of the video showing him falling off the chair.
He has raised concerns about cyberbullying and referred to previous incidents involving members of the Government.
He mentioned former Minister for Women and Children and current Information Minister Lynda Tabuya and former Attorney General and Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga, in his comments about cyberbullying within political circles.
Levuidali says he believes the incident raises questions about the use of social media by public figures.
In response, Minister Bainivalu says she did not intend to ridicule Levuidali after posting a video of him falling off a chair on her official facebook page.
Bainivalu says she has been posting videos of the consultations over the past week and that Levuidali was not singled out.
She says the video also shows the part of his submission in which he was ridiculing the panel.
Bainivalu says the consultations are public hearings that allow the public to engage in different forms of discussion, adding that it was unfortunate Levuidali fell off his chair.
She says the videos are intended to show the public that the consultations are open to everyone, regardless of whether they sit, stand or speak while facing away from the panel.
Bainivalu also says people should prepare themselves well before attending the consultations.
Ba business owner Sevanaia Levuidali says he has lodged a complaint against Minister for Fisheries Alitia Bainivalu, accusing her of cyberbullying after she posted a video of him falling off a chair while making a submission to the Joint Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 202 in Ba.
Police have also confirmed to fijivillage News that Levuidali filed a report at the Ba Police Station this morning against the Minister for cyber-bullying.
Speaking to fijivillage News, Levuidali questioned why Bainivalu had shared the video on facebook, which was taken from a Fiji Government livestream of the public consultation at the Ba Market Bure.
Levuidali says he does not understand why Bainivalu chose to post the part of the video showing him falling off the chair.
He has raised concerns about cyberbullying and referred to previous incidents involving members of the Government.
He mentioned former Minister for Women and Children and current Information Minister Lynda Tabuya and former Attorney General and Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga, in his comments about cyberbullying within political circles.
Levuidali says he believes the incident raises questions about the use of social media by public figures.
In response, Minister Bainivalu says she did not intend to ridicule Levuidali after posting a video of him falling off a chair on her official facebook page.
She says the video also shows the part of his submission in which he was ridiculing the panel.
Bainivalu says the consultations are public hearings that allow the public to engage in different forms of discussion, adding that it was unfortunate Levuidali fell off his chair.
She says the videos are intended to show the public that the consultations are open to everyone, regardless of whether they sit, stand or speak while facing away from the panel.
Bainivalu also says people should prepare themselves well before attending the consultations.
Rakiraki farmer calls for up to one year of public consultations on Constitution BillBy Antornette Vuniuca 20/10/2026
[Image: Fiji Government]Rakiraki farmer Hazrat Ali is calling for public consultations on the Constitution Amendment Bill, to be extended by six months to one year to give more Fijians, particularly those living in rural, informal and maritime communities, an opportunity to have their say.While making his submission to the Joint Parliamentary Special Committee at Rakiraki Hall, Ali says every Fijian should be given enough time to understand the proposed constitutional changes and contribute to the process.
He believes rushing the consultations could repeat mistakes of the past and affect public confidence in the constitutional review process.
Ali, who is a sugarcane and cassava farmer, also raised concerns about a change in the scheduled time for the consultation in Rakiraki.
He says residents were initially informed that the consultation would begin at 6pm, but the time was later changed to 10am.
Ali believes this may have contributed to the low turnout, as some residents may have relied on the original schedule.
He says some communities in Rakiraki have limited or no mobile network coverage, making it difficult for residents to receive updates shared only on Facebook.
Ali says important government announcements should also be communicated through the Provincial Administrator's Office and advisory councillors to ensure information reaches people in rural communities.
He stresses that the Constitution is the supreme law of the country and that all Fijians should have a fair opportunity to contribute to any proposed changes.
Ali also believes the findings of the Constitution Review Commission should be respected and reflected in the proposed amendments.
On other issues raised in his submission, Ali is calling for Fiji to remain a secular State and has proposed replacing references to Christianity in the proposed amendments, with references to religion and family values to protect the rights of people from different religious backgrounds.
He has also raised concerns about the proposed provision relating to the chastisement of children, saying parents should take greater responsibility for teaching their children discipline and respect.
Ali is also calling for stronger constitutional protection of freehold land, saying landowners need assurance that their property rights will remain protected in the future.
He says freehold land ownership is particularly important for minority communities.
Ali has urged the Committee to carefully consider public submissions and ensure that the final constitutional amendments reflect the views of all Fijians.
Meanwhile, consultation will be held at Rakiraki Village Hall in Navutulevu from 4pm to 6pm today.
Tomorrow, consultations will be held at Wailotua Village Hall in Wainibuka from 10am to midday and at Korovou Primary School Hall from 3pm to 5pm.
While making his submission to the Joint Parliamentary Special Committee at Rakiraki Hall, Ali says every Fijian should be given enough time to understand the proposed constitutional changes and contribute to the process.
He believes rushing the consultations could repeat mistakes of the past and affect public confidence in the constitutional review process.
Ali, who is a sugarcane and cassava farmer, also raised concerns about a change in the scheduled time for the consultation in Rakiraki.
He says residents were initially informed that the consultation would begin at 6pm, but the time was later changed to 10am.
Ali believes this may have contributed to the low turnout, as some residents may have relied on the original schedule.
He says some communities in Rakiraki have limited or no mobile network coverage, making it difficult for residents to receive updates shared only on Facebook.
Ali says important government announcements should also be communicated through the Provincial Administrator's Office and advisory councillors to ensure information reaches people in rural communities.
He stresses that the Constitution is the supreme law of the country and that all Fijians should have a fair opportunity to contribute to any proposed changes.
Ali also believes the findings of the Constitution Review Commission should be respected and reflected in the proposed amendments.
On other issues raised in his submission, Ali is calling for Fiji to remain a secular State and has proposed replacing references to Christianity in the proposed amendments, with references to religion and family values to protect the rights of people from different religious backgrounds.
He has also raised concerns about the proposed provision relating to the chastisement of children, saying parents should take greater responsibility for teaching their children discipline and respect.
Ali is also calling for stronger constitutional protection of freehold land, saying landowners need assurance that their property rights will remain protected in the future.
He says freehold land ownership is particularly important for minority communities.
Ali has urged the Committee to carefully consider public submissions and ensure that the final constitutional amendments reflect the views of all Fijians.
Meanwhile, consultation will be held at Rakiraki Village Hall in Navutulevu from 4pm to 6pm today.
Tomorrow, consultations will be held at Wailotua Village Hall in Wainibuka from 10am to midday and at Korovou Primary School Hall from 3pm to 5pm.
Our laws are too lenient towards offenders, bring back laws for hanging for serious offenders – Lawai villagerBy Navitalai Naivalurua 20/10/2026
[Image: Parliament of Fiji]An 85-year-old villager from Lawai in Sigatoka has called on the Joint Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill to reintroduce the death penalty for those who commit serious crimes such as murder and rape, saying the country's laws are weak and too lenient towards offenders.
While making submissions to the Committee during consultations at Lawai Village in Sigatoka, the villager says weaknesses in the country's laws have contributed to an increase in the number of people in prison, and the number continues to grow.
He says he is ashamed to say which ethnicity makes up a large proportion of the prison population, saying that it is predominantly iTaukei.
He also called for the reintroduction of the death penalty by hanging for people who commit serious crimes such as murder and rape, saying the sentences handed down by the judiciary are too lenient.
The man adds that bringing back the death penalty would instill fear in those who want to commit crimes.
The 85-year-old villager also highlighted the need for people from overseas who wish to reside in Fiji to pay a residential tax.
Consultations continue today at Rakiraki Village Hall in Navutulevu from 4pm to 6pm.
Tomorrow, consultations will be held at Wailotua Village Hall in Wainibuka from 10am to midday and at Korovou Primary School Hall from 3pm to 5pm.
Divert funds on re-instating the Senate for something useful that will benefit the people - VukiBy Navitalai Naivalurua 20/10/2026
[Image: Parliament of Fiji]A call not to re-instate the Senate was made during the Constitution (Amendment) Bill consultation at Lawai Village in Sigatoka, where it was recommended that funds to set up the Senate, should go towards an area that needs to be developed to benefit the economy.
Vuki from Vucilevu Village, was one of the two women that presented their views on the Bill, where she told the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution that setting up the Senate will take us back to the colonial period.
She says we have tried to move away from the Westminster system and if we bring back the Senate, we are still stuck in the colonial period.
She further says that the funds could be used on infrastructure or any other areas that will benefit the people.
Vuki adds it will also be costly to bring back the Senate and not a good use of taxpayers funds.
The villager also shared her disappointment that only 90 minutes was given to the Nadroga/Navosa province to discuss an important issue.
The consultation brought together the community of Lawai where the community raised issues such as the removal of the immunity clause, resources and minerals to be owned by indigenous Fijians, the lands that the State took for public purpose to be returned to its rightful owner when that land are not used for its purpose, and Fiji and the Constitution should be founded by the word of God.
PM confirms the next general elections will be held under the current electoral system and by Feb 6th 2027By Vijay Narayan 20/10/2026
With some creating confusion by saying that the general elections will not be held during the required legal timeline under the 2013 Constitution, and uncertainties surrounding drastic changes to the electoral system that could affect the Fijian Elections Office's preparations with only about 8 weeks to go for the Writ of Elections to be issued, Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka has today made it clear that logically, the next general elections will be held under the current electoral system.
Rabuka made this clear in an exclusive interview when fijivillage News asked him on whether he can confirm to the people if the next general elections which has to be held by February 6th 2027, will be held under the current electoral system.
We also asked Rabuka whether any electoral changes, including those in the Constitution Amendment Bill on the drawing up of electoral boundaries if a multi constituency electoral system is approved, will be used in the elections after the 2027 elections as we need the boundaries drawn up, and population figures based on the census, which is scheduled to be held next year.
In his response, the Prime Minister says the constituency boundaries have to be drawn up and the census will take place next year.
Rabuka says the census data will provide the essential information for the Electoral Commission to do their work in time for any elections eventually the next government will face.
In a recent interview, Supervisor of Elections, Ana Mataiciwa had said that the Fijian Elections Office is ready to deliver the general elections under the current system based on the legal timeline where the last day for the Writ of Elections to be issued by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister is December 24th this year and the last date for the general elections is February 6th 2027.
She had said it would be impossible to deliver the general elections operationally within this timeframe if drastic changes are made to the electoral system including a multi constituency system.
The transitional provision of the Constitution Amendment Bill states that on the commencement of the law, the current parliament continues until it is dissolved or ends its term in accordance with section 58 of the 2013 Constitution.
This means the next general elections will be held under the legal timetable specified in the 2013 Constitution - the last day for the Writ of Elections to be issued is 24th December this year and the last day for the general elections is February 6th next year.
It is also stated that the 2026 Constitution Amendment Bill, if passed, will come into force on 31st March 2028.
However the President may, by Proclamation published in the Gazette, fix a date earlier than 31st March 2028.
Despite the commencement, section 58 of the 2013 Constitution continues to apply to the current parliament, and the maximum term of the current parliament remains 4 years from the date of the first meeting of the first Parliament.
The Constitution Amendment Bill also proposes the retention of a 55 member Parliament however a system is proposed where 33 constituency members or such number as Parliament may by written law
prescribe, which includes 5 maritime constituencies chosen directly by the registered voters of those constituencies in a first-past-the-post election; and 22 party list members or such number as Parliament may by written law prescribe, allocated to political parties in proportion to the total number of votes for the candidates of that party in the constituency seats.
Parliament or the House of Representatives is to be composed in a manner that reflects, as closely as practicable, the proportion of votes cast for political parties.
A political party is entitled to proportional representation if it secures not less than
5 percent of the party vote.
Constituency seats won are deducted from each party’s proportional entitlement, with the balance filled from party lists.
The Party list seats must be allocated in accordance with a written law prescribing an appropriate mathematical rounding method, which rounds fractions to whole numbers to determine seat allocations.
Candidates unaffiliated with a political party may contest constituency seats, and if elected, serve as independent members without affecting proportional allocation.
A candidate of a party can stand for election in a constituency seat and be included in the party’s list for a party list seat.
The Bill says Parliament may provide, by written law, for temporary special measures relating to the way in which party lists must be constituted, for example measures to ensure, as far as possible, equal numbers of male and female candidates; or measures to otherwise facilitate diverse representation on party lists.
The maritime constituencies are Rotuma, Yasawa, Kadavu, Lomaiviti and Lau.
A candidate for election to the House of Representatives must be either nominated by a registered political party or nominated as an independent candidate in accordance with the laws governing elections.
A person may be a candidate for election to the House of Representatives only if the person is a citizen of Fiji; is qualified to be registered as a voter and is registered on the Register of
Voters; is ordinarily resident in Fiji for at least 2 years immediately before being nominated; is not an undischarged bankrupt; is not a member of the Electoral Commission and has not been a member of that Commission at any time during the 4 years immediately before being nominated; is not subject to a sentence of imprisonment when nominated; has not, at any time during the 8 years immediately before being nominated, been convicted of an offence under any law for which the maximum penalty is a term of imprisonment of 12 months or more; and has not, in the 5 years immediately before being nominated, been found guilty of any offence under a law relating to elections, registration of political parties or registration of voters.
The total number of candidates that a political party may nominate for any general election must not be more than the total number of seats in the House of Representatives, and the total number of candidates that a political party may nominate for any by-election must not be more than the total number of vacant seats in the House of Representatives for which the by-election is held.
If a seat in the House of Representatives becomes vacant, the vacancy must be filled in the case of a constituency seat, by a by-election; and in the case of a party list seat, by the next candidate on the party list; or if there is no next candidate on the party list, by a by-election.
The Bill also proposes the House of Representatives continues for 5 years from the date of its first meeting after a general election of the members of the House of Representatives, unless sooner dissolved in accordance with the Constitution.
With some creating confusion by saying that the general elections will not be held during the required legal timeline under the 2013 Constitution, and uncertainties surrounding drastic changes to the electoral system that could affect the Fijian Elections Office's preparations with only about 8 weeks to go for the Writ of Elections to be issued, Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka has today made it clear that logically, the next general elections will be held under the current electoral system.
Rabuka made this clear in an exclusive interview when fijivillage News asked him on whether he can confirm to the people if the next general elections which has to be held by February 6th 2027, will be held under the current electoral system.
We also asked Rabuka whether any electoral changes, including those in the Constitution Amendment Bill on the drawing up of electoral boundaries if a multi constituency electoral system is approved, will be used in the elections after the 2027 elections as we need the boundaries drawn up, and population figures based on the census, which is scheduled to be held next year.
In his response, the Prime Minister says the constituency boundaries have to be drawn up and the census will take place next year.
Rabuka says the census data will provide the essential information for the Electoral Commission to do their work in time for any elections eventually the next government will face.
In a recent interview, Supervisor of Elections, Ana Mataiciwa had said that the Fijian Elections Office is ready to deliver the general elections under the current system based on the legal timeline where the last day for the Writ of Elections to be issued by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister is December 24th this year and the last date for the general elections is February 6th 2027.
She had said it would be impossible to deliver the general elections operationally within this timeframe if drastic changes are made to the electoral system including a multi constituency system.
The transitional provision of the Constitution Amendment Bill states that on the commencement of the law, the current parliament continues until it is dissolved or ends its term in accordance with section 58 of the 2013 Constitution.
This means the next general elections will be held under the legal timetable specified in the 2013 Constitution - the last day for the Writ of Elections to be issued is 24th December this year and the last day for the general elections is February 6th next year.
It is also stated that the 2026 Constitution Amendment Bill, if passed, will come into force on 31st March 2028.
However the President may, by Proclamation published in the Gazette, fix a date earlier than 31st March 2028.
Despite the commencement, section 58 of the 2013 Constitution continues to apply to the current parliament, and the maximum term of the current parliament remains 4 years from the date of the first meeting of the first Parliament.
The Constitution Amendment Bill also proposes the retention of a 55 member Parliament however a system is proposed where 33 constituency members or such number as Parliament may by written law
prescribe, which includes 5 maritime constituencies chosen directly by the registered voters of those constituencies in a first-past-the-post election; and 22 party list members or such number as Parliament may by written law prescribe, allocated to political parties in proportion to the total number of votes for the candidates of that party in the constituency seats.
Parliament or the House of Representatives is to be composed in a manner that reflects, as closely as practicable, the proportion of votes cast for political parties.
A political party is entitled to proportional representation if it secures not less than
5 percent of the party vote.
Constituency seats won are deducted from each party’s proportional entitlement, with the balance filled from party lists.
The Party list seats must be allocated in accordance with a written law prescribing an appropriate mathematical rounding method, which rounds fractions to whole numbers to determine seat allocations.
Candidates unaffiliated with a political party may contest constituency seats, and if elected, serve as independent members without affecting proportional allocation.
A candidate of a party can stand for election in a constituency seat and be included in the party’s list for a party list seat.
The Bill says Parliament may provide, by written law, for temporary special measures relating to the way in which party lists must be constituted, for example measures to ensure, as far as possible, equal numbers of male and female candidates; or measures to otherwise facilitate diverse representation on party lists.
The maritime constituencies are Rotuma, Yasawa, Kadavu, Lomaiviti and Lau.
A candidate for election to the House of Representatives must be either nominated by a registered political party or nominated as an independent candidate in accordance with the laws governing elections.
A person may be a candidate for election to the House of Representatives only if the person is a citizen of Fiji; is qualified to be registered as a voter and is registered on the Register of
Voters; is ordinarily resident in Fiji for at least 2 years immediately before being nominated; is not an undischarged bankrupt; is not a member of the Electoral Commission and has not been a member of that Commission at any time during the 4 years immediately before being nominated; is not subject to a sentence of imprisonment when nominated; has not, at any time during the 8 years immediately before being nominated, been convicted of an offence under any law for which the maximum penalty is a term of imprisonment of 12 months or more; and has not, in the 5 years immediately before being nominated, been found guilty of any offence under a law relating to elections, registration of political parties or registration of voters.
The total number of candidates that a political party may nominate for any general election must not be more than the total number of seats in the House of Representatives, and the total number of candidates that a political party may nominate for any by-election must not be more than the total number of vacant seats in the House of Representatives for which the by-election is held.
If a seat in the House of Representatives becomes vacant, the vacancy must be filled in the case of a constituency seat, by a by-election; and in the case of a party list seat, by the next candidate on the party list; or if there is no next candidate on the party list, by a by-election.
The Bill also proposes the House of Representatives continues for 5 years from the date of its first meeting after a general election of the members of the House of Representatives, unless sooner dissolved in accordance with the Constitution.
Tavua resident calls for amendments to land return provisions in Constitution Amendment BillBy Temalesi Vono 21/10/2026
Picture: Fiji GovernmentAll land acquired for public purposes, including land acquired before the 2013 Constitution came into force, should be returned to iTaukei landowners when it is no longer needed.
This is a submission to the Joint Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 by Tavua resident Peceli Vuniwa, who is calling for amendments to Sections 48 (2) and 49 (2) of the proposed Bill to address concerns about the return of land and the restoration of land to its original status.
Vuniwa says Section 48 (2) should be amended to clarify that land acquired for public purposes before the 2013 Constitution came into force must also be returned when it is no longer required.
He says the provision reflects aspects of Section 28(2) of the 2013 Constitution, but the proposed wording removes the reference to land acquired after the commencement of the Constitution.
Vuniwa says iTaukei landowners have questioned why the existing provision allows for the return of land acquired for public purposes after the 2013 Constitution came into force, but does not cover land acquired before that time.
He compared the situation to being given an apple with half of it withheld, saying all land acquired for public use that is no longer needed should be returned, regardless of when it was acquired.
Vuniwa is also calling for Section 49 (2) of the proposed Bill to be amended or removed to allow the full reversion of land to iTaukei landowners through the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB).
He says the provision retains the status of land that was already freehold before the commencement of the Constitution, reflecting Section 29(5) of the 2013 Constitution.
Vuniwa says the TLTB and the Lands Department have advised iTaukei landowners that Section 29(5) has affected requests under Section 18 of the iTaukei Land Trust Act relating to the allocation and reservation of land.
He says landowners had been led to believe the constitutional provision would be amended or removed to address concerns that it prevents land from being restored to its original status.
Vuniwa says the Government and the TLTB should be reminded of their commitment to address these concerns through submissions to the committee.
Vuniwa also spoke about his involvement in the 2000 coup, saying he had been imprisoned in Nukulau alongside George Speight and others.
He says he took part in the coup because he firmly believed at the time that the aspirations and interests of the iTaukei were being diluted.
Vuniwa recalled participating in marches in Suva and the burning of the 1997 Constitution, adding that two of his colleagues involved in those events had since passed away.
All land acquired for public purposes, including land acquired before the 2013 Constitution came into force, should be returned to iTaukei landowners when it is no longer needed.
This is a submission to the Joint Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 by Tavua resident Peceli Vuniwa, who is calling for amendments to Sections 48 (2) and 49 (2) of the proposed Bill to address concerns about the return of land and the restoration of land to its original status.
Vuniwa says Section 48 (2) should be amended to clarify that land acquired for public purposes before the 2013 Constitution came into force must also be returned when it is no longer required.
He says the provision reflects aspects of Section 28(2) of the 2013 Constitution, but the proposed wording removes the reference to land acquired after the commencement of the Constitution.
Vuniwa says iTaukei landowners have questioned why the existing provision allows for the return of land acquired for public purposes after the 2013 Constitution came into force, but does not cover land acquired before that time.
He compared the situation to being given an apple with half of it withheld, saying all land acquired for public use that is no longer needed should be returned, regardless of when it was acquired.
Vuniwa is also calling for Section 49 (2) of the proposed Bill to be amended or removed to allow the full reversion of land to iTaukei landowners through the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB).
He says the provision retains the status of land that was already freehold before the commencement of the Constitution, reflecting Section 29(5) of the 2013 Constitution.
Vuniwa says the TLTB and the Lands Department have advised iTaukei landowners that Section 29(5) has affected requests under Section 18 of the iTaukei Land Trust Act relating to the allocation and reservation of land.
He says landowners had been led to believe the constitutional provision would be amended or removed to address concerns that it prevents land from being restored to its original status.
Vuniwa says the Government and the TLTB should be reminded of their commitment to address these concerns through submissions to the committee.
Vuniwa also spoke about his involvement in the 2000 coup, saying he had been imprisoned in Nukulau alongside George Speight and others.
He says he took part in the coup because he firmly believed at the time that the aspirations and interests of the iTaukei were being diluted.
Vuniwa recalled participating in marches in Suva and the burning of the 1997 Constitution, adding that two of his colleagues involved in those events had since passed away.
Tagicakibau calls for social media ban for children aged 16 years and underBy Antornette Vuniuca 21/10/2026
Tailevu resident Leone Tagicakibau is calling for children aged 16 and under to be banned from using social media platforms, including TikTok, to protect them from negative influences and help them become responsible future leaders.
While making his submission to the Joint Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution Amendment Bill at Rakiraki Hall, Tagicakibau says he is concerned about the behaviour and vulgar language used by some young people on social media.
He believes children need proper guidance and protection from harmful influences as they grow up.
Tagicakibau says restricting social media access for children aged 16 and under could help prepare them to become responsible leaders in the future.
He also raises concerns about what he sees as a lack of youth representation in national leadership.
Tagicakibau says young people should be given more opportunities to serve on boards and statutory bodies so they can contribute to important decisions affecting the country.
He stresses that young people should not only be regarded as leaders of tomorrow but should also be recognised as leaders of today.
Tagicakibau, who travelled from Nadi to Rakiraki to make his submission, says he wanted to contribute to the constitutional review process as a young leader concerned about Fiji's future.
On other issues raised in his submission, Tagicakibau proposes recognising Christianity as an important part of Fiji's history and national values while respecting freedom of religion and the rights of people from other religious backgrounds.
He says his intention is to preserve Fiji's Christian heritage, while ensuring that everyone can continue to live and worship freely.
Tagicakibau also highlights the importance of recognising Fijian identity and cultural heritage while respecting people of all races who call Fiji home.
Tailevu resident Leone Tagicakibau is calling for children aged 16 and under to be banned from using social media platforms, including TikTok, to protect them from negative influences and help them become responsible future leaders.
While making his submission to the Joint Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution Amendment Bill at Rakiraki Hall, Tagicakibau says he is concerned about the behaviour and vulgar language used by some young people on social media.
He believes children need proper guidance and protection from harmful influences as they grow up.
Tagicakibau says restricting social media access for children aged 16 and under could help prepare them to become responsible leaders in the future.
He also raises concerns about what he sees as a lack of youth representation in national leadership.
Tagicakibau says young people should be given more opportunities to serve on boards and statutory bodies so they can contribute to important decisions affecting the country.
He stresses that young people should not only be regarded as leaders of tomorrow but should also be recognised as leaders of today.
Tagicakibau, who travelled from Nadi to Rakiraki to make his submission, says he wanted to contribute to the constitutional review process as a young leader concerned about Fiji's future.
On other issues raised in his submission, Tagicakibau proposes recognising Christianity as an important part of Fiji's history and national values while respecting freedom of religion and the rights of people from other religious backgrounds.
He says his intention is to preserve Fiji's Christian heritage, while ensuring that everyone can continue to live and worship freely.
Tagicakibau also highlights the importance of recognising Fijian identity and cultural heritage while respecting people of all races who call Fiji home.
Coalition lacked numbers to amend Constitution in 2022, Balawa questions SODELPA’s opposition to BillBy Pita Toganivalu 25/10/2026
The Coalition Government did not have enough parliamentary votes to amend the 2013 Constitution after the 2022 general elections, with People’s Alliance General Secretary Sila Balawa saying it had only 29 MPs against the required 42 votes under the original 75 percent threshold.
Balawa says this is an important factor to consider when questioning why the Coalition Government did not amend the Constitution within its first 100 days or first two years in office.
He says following the 2022 general elections, Parliament had 55 seats, with FijiFirst holding 26, the People’s Alliance 21, the National Federation Party 5 and SODELPA 3.
The Coalition Government was formed with 29 MPs, giving it a narrow majority over FijiFirst’s 26 MPs.
However, under the original 2013 Constitution, constitutional amendments required a 75 percent parliamentary majority, meaning at least 42 votes out of 55.
Balawa questions where the Government was expected to find the additional 13 votes during its first 100 days.
He says the parliamentary situation changed after FijiFirst was deregistered in July 2024, when its 26 MPs became Independents.
In January 2025, nine former FijiFirst MPs, known as the G9, joined the Government, increasing its parliamentary strength from 29 to 38 MPs.
In March 2025, two more former FijiFirst MPs, Sachida Nand and Shalen Kumar, joined the group, bringing the number of Independents supporting the Government to 11, known as the G11.
Despite these changes, Balawa says the original three-quarters threshold remained a major obstacle to constitutional amendments.
He says the legal position changed on 29th August 2025, when the Supreme Court clarified that constitutional amendments require the support of at least two-thirds of all Members of Parliament at the second and third readings, rather than the previous three-quarters requirement.
Balawa says this created a legal pathway for constitutional reform.
According to Balawa, the Speaker’s ruling in October 2026 requires 35 votes if all 53 MPs occupying parliamentary seats are present and seated.
He says the People’s Alliance has 20 MPs, the NFP has 4 and the G11 Independents have 11, giving them a combined total of 35 votes without the support of SODELPA’s three MPs, provided all those members support the Bill.
However, Balawa questions SODELPA’s decision not to support the Constitution Amendment Bill 2026 in its current form.
He says SODELPA campaigned during the 2014, 2018 and 2022 general elections on protecting iTaukei interests and opposing the 2013 Constitution.
He also points to the Coalition Agreement, which committed the Government to reviewing the Constitution and considering amendments.
Balawa questions why SODELPA would campaign for constitutional change over three general elections but withhold its support when the opportunity to make changes is now available.
He acknowledges that SODELPA has every right to scrutinise Bill 32 but says the party has a responsibility to explain to its supporters why it will not support the Bill in its current form.
Balawa argues that the Government should not be blamed for failing to amend the Constitution when it did not have the necessary parliamentary numbers, only for the process to be opposed now that the numbers and legal pathway are available.
He says the key question is whether SODELPA still stands by the commitments it made to voters in 2014, 2018 and 2022.
The Coalition Government did not have enough parliamentary votes to amend the 2013 Constitution after the 2022 general elections, with People’s Alliance General Secretary Sila Balawa saying it had only 29 MPs against the required 42 votes under the original 75 percent threshold.
Balawa says this is an important factor to consider when questioning why the Coalition Government did not amend the Constitution within its first 100 days or first two years in office.
He says following the 2022 general elections, Parliament had 55 seats, with FijiFirst holding 26, the People’s Alliance 21, the National Federation Party 5 and SODELPA 3.
The Coalition Government was formed with 29 MPs, giving it a narrow majority over FijiFirst’s 26 MPs.
However, under the original 2013 Constitution, constitutional amendments required a 75 percent parliamentary majority, meaning at least 42 votes out of 55.
Balawa questions where the Government was expected to find the additional 13 votes during its first 100 days.
He says the parliamentary situation changed after FijiFirst was deregistered in July 2024, when its 26 MPs became Independents.
In January 2025, nine former FijiFirst MPs, known as the G9, joined the Government, increasing its parliamentary strength from 29 to 38 MPs.
In March 2025, two more former FijiFirst MPs, Sachida Nand and Shalen Kumar, joined the group, bringing the number of Independents supporting the Government to 11, known as the G11.
Despite these changes, Balawa says the original three-quarters threshold remained a major obstacle to constitutional amendments.
He says the legal position changed on 29th August 2025, when the Supreme Court clarified that constitutional amendments require the support of at least two-thirds of all Members of Parliament at the second and third readings, rather than the previous three-quarters requirement.
Balawa says this created a legal pathway for constitutional reform.
According to Balawa, the Speaker’s ruling in October 2026 requires 35 votes if all 53 MPs occupying parliamentary seats are present and seated.
He says the People’s Alliance has 20 MPs, the NFP has 4 and the G11 Independents have 11, giving them a combined total of 35 votes without the support of SODELPA’s three MPs, provided all those members support the Bill.
However, Balawa questions SODELPA’s decision not to support the Constitution Amendment Bill 2026 in its current form.
He says SODELPA campaigned during the 2014, 2018 and 2022 general elections on protecting iTaukei interests and opposing the 2013 Constitution.
He also points to the Coalition Agreement, which committed the Government to reviewing the Constitution and considering amendments.
Balawa questions why SODELPA would campaign for constitutional change over three general elections but withhold its support when the opportunity to make changes is now available.
He acknowledges that SODELPA has every right to scrutinise Bill 32 but says the party has a responsibility to explain to its supporters why it will not support the Bill in its current form.
Balawa argues that the Government should not be blamed for failing to amend the Constitution when it did not have the necessary parliamentary numbers, only for the process to be opposed now that the numbers and legal pathway are available.
He says the key question is whether SODELPA still stands by the commitments it made to voters in 2014, 2018 and 2022.
One Nation calls for Constitution Bill to be stopped, urges government to focus on water crisisBy Mansi Chand 13/11/2026
One Nation President Roko Tupou Draunidalo is calling on the government not to proceed with the third reading of the Constitution Amendment Bill 2026, saying taxpayers' money should instead be spent on urgent issues such as the ongoing drought and water shortages.
While making submissions to the Special Committee on the Bill, Draunidalo says constitutional amendments should be left to the next elected government.
She says only about one percent of the population has made submissions to the committee, which the party believes shows that constitutional changes are not a priority for most Fijians.
Draunidalo says the government should focus on addressing the effects of El Niño and the water shortages affecting communities across the country.
She says the government received goodwill from the public for extending the consultation period and could receive even greater support by stopping the amendment process.
Draunidalo also raises concerns about the proposed extension of immunity provisions, saying the current government came into power through democratic elections and does not need additional immunity.
She says One Nation supports retaining the existing immunity provisions under the 2013 Constitution as part of the political compromise that allowed Fiji to return to democratic elections.
However, Draunidalo says the party would support a provision preventing immunity from being granted for future actions.
Responding to a question from committee member Parveen Bala about removing immunity provisions, she says removing existing protections could undermine the political compromise that helped restore stability.
Draunidalo says that the proposed constitutional changes will not improve i-Taukei participation in the national economy.
She says greater economic opportunities for iTaukei communities should be addressed through government policies rather than constitutional changes.
She further raises concerns about proposals involving the Bose Levu Vakaturaga and chiefs, saying these could disadvantage non-chiefly iTaukei and minority communities.
Draunidalo says traditional leaders could contribute more to economic development by working independently and collaborating with the private sector.
She also raises concerns about more than 100 reported errors and typographical mistakes in the Bill, urging the committee to address them if the proposed amendments proceed.
Heated argument during NFP submission to Constitution Review CommitteeBy Rashika Kumar 13/11/2026
Source: Parliament of FijiThere was a heated argument during the consultation on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill as National Federation Party General Secretary Kamal Iyer claimed that the majority of Indo-Fijians who made submissions to the Constitution Review Commission were NFP members and supporters, however, the Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill Acting Chair Viliame Gavoka ruled out the claim, saying there is no evidence to quantify the number of submitters who were supporters of the party.
This comes as Committee member and People's Alliance MP Siromi Turaga raised concerns about the lack of participation from members of the Indo-Fijian community during the CRC's consultations around the country.
Turaga says the lack of participation was evident as the Constitution Review travelled around the country, including in some parts of the Northern Division, where special invitations had been made but no one turned up.
While responding, Iyer says an overwhelming majority of Indo-Fijians who made submissions in various districts were members of the NFP and had been encouraged to participate by the party's branches.
He says they were not members of the now-deregistered FijiFirst, which he said had broken up into three components.
However, Opposition MP Alvick Maharaj challenged Iyer's claim, saying there was no evidence of people who appeared before the committee declaring themselves as NFP supporters or members.
Maharaj says the claim was false and needed to be retracted, stressing that the committee worked on evidence and there were no statistics to support it.
Iyer maintained that his claim was a fact, saying NFP members who made submissions in Nadi and Ba had consulted the party and provided submissions.
He says the submitters in Rakiraki, Nadi and Nawaicoba were also NFP members and that the number of submissions was proportional to the support the party received from the Indo-Fijian community during the last General Election.
Iyer says the party had records of people who attended the submissions and many had sought guidance from the NFP, which explained why their positions were consistent.
Attorney General Sevuloni Valenitabua pointed out that there was no provision or column in the attendance records for submitters to identify which political party they belonged to or represented.
He says that while the information may be known to Iyer, the CRC and the committee would not be able to determine how many submitters were NFP members from the attendance lists.
Iyer maintained that although submitters were not required to declare their political affiliations, the NFP knew some were party supporters because they had consulted the party and shared their submissions, while Maharaj again demanded that the claim be retracted due to a lack of evidence.
Gavoka then ruled out Iyer's claim, saying there was no evidence to quantify the number of people he was referring to.
Iyer again maintained that he was responding to Turaga's question about the lack of Indo-Fijian attendance at the CRC hearings.
He says Indo-Fijians make up 30 percent of the population and that the low participation showed a lack of empathy.
Iyer says the NFP knew most of the Indo-Fijian members who attended the consultations and could identify them, although there was no requirement for people to declare their political affiliations when making submissions.
Gavoka stressed that members wanted to see greater Indo-Fijian participation in the next round of consultations and has called on everyone to work together to encourage more people to participate.
Meanwhile, Turaga asked Iyer whether more people had made submissions to the special committee than to the CRC.
Iyer says the party did not know the list of submitters but claimed that most people who made submissions had not read the Bill or understood its provisions, as it had not been translated into any language or adequately explained through public broadcasts in all three languages.
Gavoka also questioned whether the extension of the consultation period was an indication that the concerns raised by the public were being heard.
He says Fiji was going through the process for the first time and was learning along the way, adding that the extension could be viewed as an indication that the concerns raised were resonating with those overseeing the process.
Gavoka also questioned Iyer's description of the proposed Constitution as imposed, asking whether he had examined the entirety of the Bill and whether it resembled the imposed Constitution.
Iyer says the NFP described the process as imposed because it was being rushed.
He says the process started with reference to the 2013 imposed Constitution and questioned the timeline for public consultations.
The NFP General Secretary says the first round of public consultations lasted 13 days and the Committee then decided on 2nd November to seek more time and return to Parliament on 30th November, despite another parliamentary sitting already being on the calendar.
Gavoka also clarified that the general understanding was for the committee to complete its work within 30 days from the second reading of the Bill.
Meanwhile, NFP Deputy General Secretary Apenisa Vatuniveivuke has stressed to the Committee that the party will oppose the Constitution Amendment Bill at its third reading.
He says the NFP supported the second reading in good faith because it believed the Bill should undergo extensive public scrutiny and parliamentary deliberation, but its support was not unconditional.
He raised concerns about the consultation process, including the initial 13-day timeframe, inadequate translations and explanations of the proposed amendments, and limited opportunities for members of the public to properly express their views.
Vatuniveivuke is asking the Committee to recommend that the Bill does not proceed to its third reading under the present arrangements, saying constitutional reform should continue after the next General Election through a more inclusive and deliberate process.
Vatuniveivuke adds there was no constitutional emergency requiring the Bill to be enacted before the next General Election.
SODELPA proposes all land in Fiji be owned by the iTaukeiBy Navitalai Naivalurua 13/11/2026
SODELPA is proposing that the new Constitution should provide for all land in Fiji, including Crown land and freehold land, to be owned by the iTaukei people, and saying they are also referring to the definition of Fijian in the 1970 Constitution, which was adhered to and accepted by most past leaders.
The party is also proposing the removal of immunity provisions, the return of mineral resource ownership from the State to the iTaukei and the recognition of customary laws in Fiji's legal system.
Presenting the party's submission before the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, lawyer Jolame Uludole says they want the proposed Constitution to provide for all land in Fiji to be owned by the iTaukei.
Committee Member Siromi Turaga then asked Uludole to explain his statement.
SODELPA member and Lawyer Savenaca Komaisavai told the Committee that they want Crown land and freehold land to come under one heading, and if there are claims of injustice or human rights violations because of existing leases, these can be addressed under Section 8 of the Land Transfer Act.
Committee Member Parveen Bala asked how freehold land could be converted.
Uludole responded by saying that the land could be bought back, and if some owners are unwilling to sell their land, negotiations could take place.
Turaga then told Uludole that he found it difficult to understand the proposal to buy back freehold land because most freehold land is owned by non-iTaukei, and that is the only form of security they have in this nation.
However, the SODELPA representative was adamant that ownership of land must return to the iTaukei.
Uludole highlighted that they are also proposing that ownership of mineral resources should revert from the State to the iTaukei people.
He says when Fiji gained independence, the State or the Queen retained ownership of minerals.
Uludole questioned why the State should continue to retain ownership of minerals when Fiji is no longer under the Crown.
He says the definition of Fijian in the 1970 Constitution was lost when the coup occurred and a new Constitution was created.
Speaking on the recognition of customary laws in Fiji's legal system, Uludole says customary law needs to be elevated to an Act of Parliament.
He says they are not asking the courts to simply recognise customary laws, as recognition alone means nothing.
Uludole says they want the Qoliqoli Bill and other customary Bills to be enshrined in the proposed Constitution.
People First warns against rushing Constitution Bill, wants BLV excluded from Senate and presidential appointmentBy Rashika Kumar 13/11/2026
Photo: Parliament of the Republic of FijiThe People First Party is warning against rushing the Constitution Amendment Bill, saying citizens must be given sufficient time to understand the proposed changes and their implications before any decision is made.
Presenting the party's submission to the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, People First representative Rinesh Sharma says the party deliberately chose not to participate in the Constitution Review Commission process from the beginning because it disputed the correctness and legitimacy of the process.
Sharma stresses that the party's participation in the parliamentary special committee does not mean it supports the Bill.
Sharma warns that rushing the constitutional process could harm the country, saying changing or drafting a Constitution is one of the most important tasks a nation can undertake and should not be treated like ordinary legislation.
Sharma says hurried debates and short deadlines deprive citizens of the time needed to read, understand and discuss the proposed changes.
He says the 150-page Bill, containing 229 clauses and complex legal language, creates a barrier for ordinary citizens trying to understand their rights and how the proposed changes could affect their lives.
Sharma says widespread public awareness, advocacy and civic education programmes must be conducted before any vote takes place.
He says major constitutional changes should be decided through a referendum rather than Parliament having the final say.
Sharma says a referendum would give every eligible voter an equal opportunity to approve or reject changes to the country's supreme law.
He also warns against concentrating power in one person or a small group, saying when people lose their say in how fundamental rules are made, democracy exists only in name.
On the proposed recognition of the Bose Levu Vakaturaga, People First says it respects the traditional chiefly system but believes its role should remain focused on customary and traditional leadership rather than national governance.
The party says governance should remain with democratically elected representatives and that traditional structures should not override democratic principles of equality and inclusive representation.
People First representative Arista Bosei says the appointment of the President should return to the 2013 Constitution, under which the Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition each nominate a candidate for Parliament to vote on.
He recommends that every political party represented in Parliament should also be allowed to nominate a candidate.
Bosei says the President, as Head of State, must represent all citizens equally, while the BLV represents a single community.
Bosei says restricting presidential nominations to the BLV effectively limits the office to hereditary chiefly ranks, permanently excluding ordinary iTaukei citizens and all other Fijians from aspiring to the nation's highest office on the basis of merit, service and capability.
Opposition MP Sachida Nand challenged the party's interpretation, saying there was no provision in the draft Bill stating that the BLV must appoint someone with chiefly rank as President.
Rinesh Sharma says the party is concerned about possible interpretations arising from what it considers ambiguous provisions in the Bill and believes it is important to consider potential scenarios where provisions are not clearly defined.
Attorney General Sevuloni Valenitabua also questioned the party's interpretation, saying the clause speaks for itself and that it appeared the party was making assumptions about the exclusion of other candidates.
People First strongly opposes the establishment of a Senate, saying Fiji cannot afford the substantial recurring financial burden.
A party representative estimates that establishing a separate institution, including its own Secretary-General, secretariat and administrative structure, would cost between $15 million and $20 million annually.
The party says if the committee nevertheless decides to establish a Senate, its members must be democratically elected rather than appointed.
People First representative Lusia Vusanimasei recommends removing the reference to Christianity and replacing it with either 'God' or 'religion'.
She says the current wording contradicts the constitutional protection of freedom of religion, conscience and belief.
Vusanimasei also recommends retaining Fiji as a secular state rather than changing the heading of clause four to religious liberty.
She says a secular state remains neutral in matters of religion and protects both government institutions and individual beliefs.
However, Valenitabua says the Constitution Review Commission deliberately changed the heading from secular state to religious liberty following submissions received from members of the public.
Valenitabua says there was overwhelming support among citizens who made submissions for the removal of the term secular state.
He says the provisions under clause four remain unchanged and protect the religious rights of every person.
People First also wants Fiji to remain one national constituency under the 2013 electoral system.
The party supports the principle of one person, one vote, one value, saying a single national constituency guarantees equal voting weight, minimises boundary manipulation and reduces wasted votes through proportional representation.
It says the system also encourages political leaders to pursue national unity rather than communal or regional politics.
Valenitabua questioned the party's position, saying submissions to the Constitution Review Commission had shown strong interest in constituency-based representation so people would know who their representatives are.
Sharma maintained the party's position, saying it supports retaining the existing system and had come before the committee to present its recommendations for consideration.
Valenitabua explains that the heading was changed because the term secular state had attracted objections from some members of the public, particularly iTaukei citizens, and the change does not affect the substance of the religious liberty provisions.
People First representative Mohammed Saiyaz Khan calls for the removal of the provision allowing lawful and moderate chastisement for the purposes of correction.
The party also supports retaining Fijian as the national identity while their representative Virendra Lal says the party supports retaining the national identity under clause six.
Party member Hazrat Ali says the party also supports equal citizenship, maintaining that every citizen should be treated equally regardless of race, religion or ethnicity.
Sharma also calls for stronger constitutional protection to ensure freehold land remains freehold land under future governments.
The party also recommends including Hindi in clause 52 on group rights, alongside iTaukei and Rotuman languages.
It says Hindi is already formally recognised under other constitutional provisions, including a requirement for it to be taught as a compulsory subject in primary schools.
People First is also calling for a stronger role for the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission, recommending that it be allowed to challenge potentially unconstitutional actions, assist the courts and scrutinise proposed legislation before it becomes law.
The party recommends removing the position of Vice President, describing it as financially unnecessary and the office would require additional salaries, allowances, an official residence, security and administrative support for what is largely a ceremonial role.
The party says the existing arrangement, under which the Chief Justice acts as President during the President's absence or incapacity, has provided continuity without additional costs.
People First recommends that the size of Cabinet and its associated administrative costs be maintained at a fixed percentage of national revenue.
It says the size of the executive should increase or decrease in proportion to the country's economic performance and available fiscal space.
Acting Chair Viliame Gavoka questioned whether this would restrict the Prime Minister's ability to restructure ministries and portfolios.
Sharma clarified that its concern was the overall operating cost of Cabinet, including the number of ministers and assistant ministers, saying a larger government does not necessarily guarantee greater productivity.
On the appointment of the Attorney General, the party recommends increasing the period without professional misconduct sanctions from eight years to 10 years.
It says this would make the eligibility requirements consistent with those applying to judges under the proposed Constitution.
The party also recommends that the Chief Justice and President of the Court of Appeal be appointed on the advice of the Judicial Services Commission, following consultations with the Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition.
Sharma also calls for the reinstatement of the Code of Conduct and Accountability and Transparency Commission under the 2013 Constitution.
He says the commission should establish binding ethical standards for the President, Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Prime Minister, Ministers, Members of Parliament, permanent secretaries, members of commissions and other senior public office holders.
Sharma says an independent enforcement body would help prevent conflicts of interest, eliminate political self-policing and strengthen public confidence in public office holders.
They also recommend retaining FICAC as repealing the existing legislation without a fully operational constitutional replacement could affect FICAC's investigative powers, ongoing investigations and court proceedings.
He says FICAC must retain its legal mandate and constitutional standing to prevent a possible gap in the investigation and prosecution of corruption-related matters.
People First also wants the reinstatement of the Transparency and Accountability Commission to monitor conflicts of interest, declarations and potential abuse of public office.
Consultation on the Bill continues as the Special Committee will be at the Tuva Primary School in Nadroga from 10am to midday and from 3pm to 5pm at the Votualevu College Hall in Nadi tomorrow.
We Unite Fiji says constitutional reform must benefit ordinary Fijians, not politiciansBy Temalesi Vono 15/11/2026
Picture: Fiji ParliamentThe proposed Constitution (Amendment) Bill must deliver stronger democracy, protect human rights, ensure accountability and safeguard the interests of ordinary Fijians, rather than benefit those holding political power.
This was the message from the We Unite Fiji Party during their submission before the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, where the party raised concerns over several provisions and called for greater clarity, legal safeguards and public consultation before the Bill is adopted.
Party Leader Ruveni Nadalo says Fiji needs a constitutional reform that strengthens equal citizenship, protects customary land and culture, and makes every public institution accountable to the people.
Nadalo acknowledged that the Bill contains worthwhile objectives but says it is not ready for adoption in its present form.
He says Fiji had gone through four constitutions since independence in 1970 - in 1970, 1990, 1997 and 2013, and stresses the importance of ensuring the country does not continue experiencing constitutional changes without addressing the underlying issues.
Nadalo is urging Fijians, regardless of ethnicity, religion, political affiliation or social background, to consider five key questions when assessing the proposed reforms.
These include whether the new arrangements will give ordinary citizens a stronger voice in decisions affecting their future, ensure political leaders and public officials are accountable, support economic development, guarantee equal treatment and protect the interests of future generations.
He says constitutional reform should improve the everyday lives of ordinary Fijians, ensure the law applies fairly regardless of a person's position, wealth or political influence, and strengthen the independence and resources of public institutions.
Party General Secretary Satish Kumar raised concerns about the legality of the amendment process, particularly the change from the three-quarter majority requirement under the 2013 Constitution to a two-thirds majority following a Supreme Court decision.
Kumar says the party wants greater clarity on the legal basis of the amendment process, stressing that Parliament exercises legislative authority while the Supreme Court operates under the Constitution.
He says the party's concerns also extends to provisions relating to immunity, warning that some existing protections are not clearly preserved in the proposed Bill.
Kumar questioned the relationship between provisions retaining parts of the existing constitutional arrangements and those repealing the 2013 Promulgation Decree.
He says this raises questions about whether protected provisions are being repealed or reduced, and recommends that a reasoned legal assessment be published, alongside clear provisions outlining which protections will remain.
The party also raised concerns about the proposed immunity arrangements, particularly the possibility of immunity extending across future governments.
Kumar says the Bill should establish an explicit historical cut-off and make clear that the new Constitution would not create additional immunity for conduct beyond that date.
On future constitutional amendments, the party expressed concern that the proposed framework will allow Parliament to make changes through parliamentary supermajorities without a referendum.
Kumar says fundamental changes affecting citizens' rights, electoral equality, constitutional supremacy and judicial independence should require direct approval from the people.
The party further raised concerns about the relationship between the proposed Constitution's founding references to Christianity and family values and its provisions prohibiting the State from favouring any religious or non-religious belief.
They recommend that religious neutrality be expressly affirmed, with protections for the freedom to believe, change one's religion or hold no religious belief.
On the Bill of Rights, Kumar says the general test for limiting rights should apply consistently across all provisions, with any restrictions required to meet the principles of legality, necessity and proportionality.
He also called for clearer provisions allowing representatives, groups and public interest organisations to bring constitutional cases, alongside accessible court procedures, cost protection and practical access to legal aid.
The submission also questioned the proposed administrative justice provisions, including the exclusion of registered companies and the delayed commencement of certain protections.
Kumar says constitutional administrative justice protections should apply from the commencement of the Constitution and should be based on the exercise of public power or a public function, rather than the legal status of an organisation.
On detention, the party raised concerns about provisions allowing detention on grounds including vagrancy, addiction or suspected unsound mind, saying these should be subject to clear requirements of necessity, proportionality and regular judicial review.
They also recommend removing status-based detention linked to poverty or vagrancy and ensuring prompt access to the courts for people detained under any category.
The party is also calling for the removal of the provision allowing lawful and moderate chastisement of children, arguing that it could undermine protections against violence and harmful practices.
Kumar says the Constitution should protect children from all forms of corporal punishment and support positive discipline and appropriate child protection measures.
On freedom of expression, the party warns that restrictions relating to attacks on the dignity of respected offices or institutions, public morality and hate speech can potentially discourage criticism, journalism, academic debate and satire.
They recommend clearer definitions of prohibited incitement and stronger protection for public interest criticism and peaceful advocacy.
The submission also highlighted concerns over customary land and marine rights, particularly the need for a clear framework to resolve overlapping claims involving customary owners, State leases, existing permits, public infrastructure and customary access.
Kumar says the Bill should provide transparent processes for mapping, claims and adjudication, while protecting fair compensation and access to judicial review where rights are affected.
The party also called for stronger constitutional provisions addressing climate change, disaster displacement and planned relocation, including consultation, replacement tenure and protection of livelihoods for displaced communities.
On the proposed governance arrangements, the party raised concerns about the independence of constitutional commissions, appointments to senior judicial positions and the composition of the Constitutional Offices Commission.
Kumar says the proposed commission structure gives government-aligned members a majority, potentially weakening independent oversight of appointments involving institutions such as the Electoral Commission, Auditor-General and Police.
He recommends replacing the political majority with independent members selected through a transparent, multi-party process.
The party also called for stronger safeguards around political financing, campaign expenditure and the misuse of State resources, as well as constitutional guarantees for regular local government elections.
Concerns were also raised about the Prime Minister's power to determine the size of Cabinet, with Kumar saying the proposed arrangements should include a reasonable limit to prevent excessive government spending at the expense of essential public services.
He says Cabinet size should reflect the country's population and financial capacity, particularly given the need to maintain public service delivery, infrastructure, health and education.
The party further recommends stronger independence in senior judicial appointments, clearer safeguards against political interference in police investigations and disciplinary matters, and a functioning independent mechanism to investigate corruption.
In her closing remarks, party president Litiana Saviki says the Constitution must protect the rights of all Fijians, including workers, farmers, business owners, teachers, students, unemployed young people, senior citizens and rural and maritime communities.
Saviki says constitutional reform should be judged by whether it benefits the people of Fiji, rather than which political party stands to gain from it.
She has called on the committee to publish a corrected consolidated version of the Bill, a transparent electoral and implementation plan, and a response to public submissions.
Saviki also stressed that fundamental changes to the Constitution in the future should continue to require the approval of the people.
SODELPA issues apology, statement was Uludole and Komaisavai's own opinionsBy Navitalai Naivalurua 13/11/2026
SODELPA has clarified that recent media reports following the party’s presentation to the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill today regarding the buying back of freehold land and its conversion to iTaukei ownership were expressed by Jolame Uludole and Savenaca Komaisavai in their personal capacities and it does not reflect the official policy, manifesto, or approved position of SODELPA.
In a statement, SODELPA General Secretary Livai Vere says their formal position on the Constitution review process and suggestions for change are woven into the party submission to the Constitution Review Commission.
Vere say SODELPA’s official position remains focused on advocating for the return of unused State or Crown land—originally acquired for public purposes—back to its rightful iTaukei landowners.
He says that the party does not propose the acquisition, buy-back, or conversion of freehold land, as they recognize the legal and social complexities surrounding freehold property rights and the security of all Fijian citizens.
He adds that they remain committed to protecting the rights and interests of the iTaukei while upholding the rule of law, stability, and mutual respect among all communities in Fiji.
He says the values the party honours and how they will lead our country is embedded within their manifesto, and action plan for regenerative, unifying and transformational change, in our beloved Fiji, which will be released in due course.
SODELPA sincerely apologizes to all of Fiji citizens and friends of Fiji and all stakeholders for any inconvenience or discomfort the statement made by the two gentlemen concerned, may have caused.
Bill will die with current Parliament if rejected - RabukaBy Pita Toganivalu 14/11/2026
The Constitution Amendment Bill will move to a referendum if it receives two thirds of Parliament’s support but will die with the current Parliament if rejected.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has made this clear as he acknowledges concerns that some members of the public may not have been heard during earlier consultations.
Rabuka made the comments during the Special Parliamentary Committee sitting at Tuva Primary School, where members of the public were given another opportunity to share their views on the proposed changes to Fiji’s Constitution.
He says the outcome of the parliamentary vote will determine the next step in the process, with approval allowing the Bill to proceed to a referendum.
However, if MPs vote against it, the Bill will remain there and die with the current Parliament.
He says Fiji’s desire to continue reviewing its Constitution will remain, and Members of Parliament are free to raise their concerns and propose amendments if they have enough support in the House.
Rabuka also points out that the Constitution provides for periodic reviews, allowing the country to revisit its constitutional arrangements in the future.
He says a review has already been carried out, with Attorney-General Sevuloni Valenitabua serving as the commissioner of the review commission.
Rabuka says the commission’s report was taken to Cabinet before being brought to Parliament, and the proposed Bill has gone through considerable scrutiny.
He says the committee has returned to conduct further consultations because there are concerns that some people may still feel their views were not heard during the earlier process.
Rabuka says the committee will first listen to the public’s submissions before proceeding with its usual committee processes and procedures.
Meanwhile, Mata ni Tikina of Malomalo, Emoni Rokomoce, says he has participated in the consultation process and has been informing the tikina about the proposed constitutional changes.
Rokomoce says they agree with the changes and the consultation process, adding that they are grateful that the Great Council of Chiefs is recognised as lawful.
He also says the people need the Constitution to be changed.
Students call for stronger protection against corporal punishment, bullying and financial hardshipBy Karishma Kumari 15/11/2026
Students have called for stronger constitutional protection against corporal punishment, better systems to address bullying, a review of tertiary student allowances and stronger online safety measures during the public consultation on the Constitution Amendment Bill at Votualevu School.
While making her submission, the Head Girl of Votualevu College, Grace Ritishma Chand raised concerns about the proposed inclusion of the phrase "lawful and moderate chastisement" in the Constitution Amendment Bill saying that the wording is concerning because Section 11 of the Constitution already guarantees freedom from cruel and degrading treatment, while Section 41 protects children from abuse, violence and inhumane punishment.
She says the proposed wording could create a loophole allowing violence against children to be justified as discipline.
Chand says corporal punishment can affect students physically, emotionally and psychologically, and children should instead be corrected through guidance, counselling and positive discipline.
She is calling for the Constitution to maintain strong protection for children and exclude any provision that could permit corporal punishment.
Sharing her personal experience of being bullied at school, Chand says it affected her mental and emotional well-being.
However, she says she was able to stand up for herself with the support of her school heads but questioned what happens to students who lack the confidence to report bullying.
She says students who report bullying should be listened to, taken seriously and supported rather than ignored or silenced.
The head girl is calling for confidential reporting channels in every school, protection for students who report bullying and the publication of annual bullying statistics.
She also raised concerns about the financial difficulties faced by tertiary students, particularly those receiving assistance through the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service hardship scheme.
Chand says students reportedly receive $1,000 per semester under the hardship scheme, while rental accommodation alone can cost between $300 and $600 a month.
She says students also have to meet transportation, food, electricity, water, internet and other education-related expenses.
Chand calls for hardship allowances to be reviewed annually to reflect the actual cost of living.
She also wants the right to education strengthened so that students are not prevented from pursuing their studies because of financial difficulties.
On online safety, she says students continue to face cyberbullying and harassment, with online disagreements sometimes leading to physical confrontations at school.
The head girl also called for online safety education in every school, confidential reporting systems for cyberbullying and adequate funding for the Online Safety Commission.
Meanwhile, 17-year-old Assistant Head Girl Manvi Chandra called for the reintroduction of the Year 10 National Examination stating that students currently face a three-year gap between the Year 8 and Year 12 National Examinations, which can affect their examination discipline, consistency and confidence.
She believes bringing back the Year 10 examination would help identify academic weaknesses earlier and better prepare students for the Year 12 and Year 13 examinations.
Chandra also believes the examination could strengthen students' academic foundations and reduce reliance on scaling.
Deputy Head Girl Risha Raj, raised concerns about the rising cost of accommodation for tertiary students.
Raj says university dormitories are mostly available to first-year students, leaving many students to find private rental accommodation from their second year onwards.
She says increasing rental costs are forcing students to spend excessive hours working part-time to pay for accommodation, affecting their studies.
Raj says this is particularly difficult for students pursuing medical and science-related programmes, where laboratory and clinical commitments leave little time for outside employment.
She is calling on the Government to look closely at the issue and provide adequate assistance so students can focus on their academic studies.
SODELPA proposes all land in Fiji be owned by the iTaukeiBy Navitalai Naivalurua 13/11/2026SODELPA is proposing that the new Constitution should provide for all land in Fiji, including Crown land and freehold land, to be owned by the iTaukei people, and saying they are also referring to the definition of Fijian in the 1970 Constitution, which was adhered to and accepted by most past leaders.
The party is also proposing the removal of immunity provisions, the return of mineral resource ownership from the State to the iTaukei and the recognition of customary laws in Fiji's legal system.
Presenting the party's submission before the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, lawyer Jolame Uludole says they want the proposed Constitution to provide for all land in Fiji to be owned by the iTaukei.
Committee Member Siromi Turaga then asked Uludole to explain his statement.
SODELPA member and Lawyer Savenaca Komaisavai told the Committee that they want Crown land and freehold land to come under one heading, and if there are claims of injustice or human rights violations because of existing leases, these can be addressed under Section 8 of the Land Transfer Act.
Committee Member Parveen Bala asked how freehold land could be converted.
Uludole responded by saying that the land could be bought back, and if some owners are unwilling to sell their land, negotiations could take place.
Turaga then told Uludole that he found it difficult to understand the proposal to buy back freehold land because most freehold land is owned by non-iTaukei, and that is the only form of security they have in this nation.
However, the SODELPA representative was adamant that ownership of land must return to the iTaukei.
Uludole highlighted that they are also proposing that ownership of mineral resources should revert from the State to the iTaukei people.
He says when Fiji gained independence, the State or the Queen retained ownership of minerals.
Uludole questioned why the State should continue to retain ownership of minerals when Fiji is no longer under the Crown.
He says the definition of Fijian in the 1970 Constitution was lost when the coup occurred and a new Constitution was created.
Speaking on the recognition of customary laws in Fiji's legal system, Uludole says customary law needs to be elevated to an Act of Parliament.
He says they are not asking the courts to simply recognise customary laws, as recognition alone means nothing.
Uludole says they want the Qoliqoli Bill and other customary Bills to be enshrined in the proposed Constitution.
People First warns against rushing Constitution Bill, wants BLV excluded from Senate and presidential appointmentBy Rashika Kumar 13/11/2026Photo: Parliament of the Republic of FijiThe People First Party is warning against rushing the Constitution Amendment Bill, saying citizens must be given sufficient time to understand the proposed changes and their implications before any decision is made.
Presenting the party's submission to the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, People First representative Rinesh Sharma says the party deliberately chose not to participate in the Constitution Review Commission process from the beginning because it disputed the correctness and legitimacy of the process.
Sharma stresses that the party's participation in the parliamentary special committee does not mean it supports the Bill.
Sharma warns that rushing the constitutional process could harm the country, saying changing or drafting a Constitution is one of the most important tasks a nation can undertake and should not be treated like ordinary legislation.
Sharma says hurried debates and short deadlines deprive citizens of the time needed to read, understand and discuss the proposed changes.
He says the 150-page Bill, containing 229 clauses and complex legal language, creates a barrier for ordinary citizens trying to understand their rights and how the proposed changes could affect their lives.
Sharma says widespread public awareness, advocacy and civic education programmes must be conducted before any vote takes place.
He says major constitutional changes should be decided through a referendum rather than Parliament having the final say.
Sharma says a referendum would give every eligible voter an equal opportunity to approve or reject changes to the country's supreme law.
He also warns against concentrating power in one person or a small group, saying when people lose their say in how fundamental rules are made, democracy exists only in name.
On the proposed recognition of the Bose Levu Vakaturaga, People First says it respects the traditional chiefly system but believes its role should remain focused on customary and traditional leadership rather than national governance.
The party says governance should remain with democratically elected representatives and that traditional structures should not override democratic principles of equality and inclusive representation.
People First representative Arista Bosei says the appointment of the President should return to the 2013 Constitution, under which the Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition each nominate a candidate for Parliament to vote on.
He recommends that every political party represented in Parliament should also be allowed to nominate a candidate.
Bosei says the President, as Head of State, must represent all citizens equally, while the BLV represents a single community.
Bosei says restricting presidential nominations to the BLV effectively limits the office to hereditary chiefly ranks, permanently excluding ordinary iTaukei citizens and all other Fijians from aspiring to the nation's highest office on the basis of merit, service and capability.
Opposition MP Sachida Nand challenged the party's interpretation, saying there was no provision in the draft Bill stating that the BLV must appoint someone with chiefly rank as President.
Rinesh Sharma says the party is concerned about possible interpretations arising from what it considers ambiguous provisions in the Bill and believes it is important to consider potential scenarios where provisions are not clearly defined.
Attorney General Sevuloni Valenitabua also questioned the party's interpretation, saying the clause speaks for itself and that it appeared the party was making assumptions about the exclusion of other candidates.
People First strongly opposes the establishment of a Senate, saying Fiji cannot afford the substantial recurring financial burden.
A party representative estimates that establishing a separate institution, including its own Secretary-General, secretariat and administrative structure, would cost between $15 million and $20 million annually.
The party says if the committee nevertheless decides to establish a Senate, its members must be democratically elected rather than appointed.
People First representative Lusia Vusanimasei recommends removing the reference to Christianity and replacing it with either 'God' or 'religion'.
She says the current wording contradicts the constitutional protection of freedom of religion, conscience and belief.
Vusanimasei also recommends retaining Fiji as a secular state rather than changing the heading of clause four to religious liberty.
She says a secular state remains neutral in matters of religion and protects both government institutions and individual beliefs.
However, Valenitabua says the Constitution Review Commission deliberately changed the heading from secular state to religious liberty following submissions received from members of the public.
Valenitabua says there was overwhelming support among citizens who made submissions for the removal of the term secular state.
He says the provisions under clause four remain unchanged and protect the religious rights of every person.
People First also wants Fiji to remain one national constituency under the 2013 electoral system.
The party supports the principle of one person, one vote, one value, saying a single national constituency guarantees equal voting weight, minimises boundary manipulation and reduces wasted votes through proportional representation.
It says the system also encourages political leaders to pursue national unity rather than communal or regional politics.
Valenitabua questioned the party's position, saying submissions to the Constitution Review Commission had shown strong interest in constituency-based representation so people would know who their representatives are.
Sharma maintained the party's position, saying it supports retaining the existing system and had come before the committee to present its recommendations for consideration.
Valenitabua explains that the heading was changed because the term secular state had attracted objections from some members of the public, particularly iTaukei citizens, and the change does not affect the substance of the religious liberty provisions.
People First representative Mohammed Saiyaz Khan calls for the removal of the provision allowing lawful and moderate chastisement for the purposes of correction.
The party also supports retaining Fijian as the national identity while their representative Virendra Lal says the party supports retaining the national identity under clause six.
Party member Hazrat Ali says the party also supports equal citizenship, maintaining that every citizen should be treated equally regardless of race, religion or ethnicity.
Sharma also calls for stronger constitutional protection to ensure freehold land remains freehold land under future governments.
The party also recommends including Hindi in clause 52 on group rights, alongside iTaukei and Rotuman languages.
It says Hindi is already formally recognised under other constitutional provisions, including a requirement for it to be taught as a compulsory subject in primary schools.
People First is also calling for a stronger role for the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission, recommending that it be allowed to challenge potentially unconstitutional actions, assist the courts and scrutinise proposed legislation before it becomes law.
The party recommends removing the position of Vice President, describing it as financially unnecessary and the office would require additional salaries, allowances, an official residence, security and administrative support for what is largely a ceremonial role.
The party says the existing arrangement, under which the Chief Justice acts as President during the President's absence or incapacity, has provided continuity without additional costs.
People First recommends that the size of Cabinet and its associated administrative costs be maintained at a fixed percentage of national revenue.
It says the size of the executive should increase or decrease in proportion to the country's economic performance and available fiscal space.
Acting Chair Viliame Gavoka questioned whether this would restrict the Prime Minister's ability to restructure ministries and portfolios.
Sharma clarified that its concern was the overall operating cost of Cabinet, including the number of ministers and assistant ministers, saying a larger government does not necessarily guarantee greater productivity.
On the appointment of the Attorney General, the party recommends increasing the period without professional misconduct sanctions from eight years to 10 years.
It says this would make the eligibility requirements consistent with those applying to judges under the proposed Constitution.
The party also recommends that the Chief Justice and President of the Court of Appeal be appointed on the advice of the Judicial Services Commission, following consultations with the Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition.
Sharma also calls for the reinstatement of the Code of Conduct and Accountability and Transparency Commission under the 2013 Constitution.
He says the commission should establish binding ethical standards for the President, Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Prime Minister, Ministers, Members of Parliament, permanent secretaries, members of commissions and other senior public office holders.
Sharma says an independent enforcement body would help prevent conflicts of interest, eliminate political self-policing and strengthen public confidence in public office holders.
They also recommend retaining FICAC as repealing the existing legislation without a fully operational constitutional replacement could affect FICAC's investigative powers, ongoing investigations and court proceedings.
He says FICAC must retain its legal mandate and constitutional standing to prevent a possible gap in the investigation and prosecution of corruption-related matters.
People First also wants the reinstatement of the Transparency and Accountability Commission to monitor conflicts of interest, declarations and potential abuse of public office.
Consultation on the Bill continues as the Special Committee will be at the Tuva Primary School in Nadroga from 10am to midday and from 3pm to 5pm at the Votualevu College Hall in Nadi tomorrow.
We Unite Fiji says constitutional reform must benefit ordinary Fijians, not politiciansBy Temalesi Vono 15/11/2026Picture: Fiji ParliamentThe proposed Constitution (Amendment) Bill must deliver stronger democracy, protect human rights, ensure accountability and safeguard the interests of ordinary Fijians, rather than benefit those holding political power.
This was the message from the We Unite Fiji Party during their submission before the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, where the party raised concerns over several provisions and called for greater clarity, legal safeguards and public consultation before the Bill is adopted.
Party Leader Ruveni Nadalo says Fiji needs a constitutional reform that strengthens equal citizenship, protects customary land and culture, and makes every public institution accountable to the people.
Nadalo acknowledged that the Bill contains worthwhile objectives but says it is not ready for adoption in its present form.
He says Fiji had gone through four constitutions since independence in 1970 - in 1970, 1990, 1997 and 2013, and stresses the importance of ensuring the country does not continue experiencing constitutional changes without addressing the underlying issues.
Nadalo is urging Fijians, regardless of ethnicity, religion, political affiliation or social background, to consider five key questions when assessing the proposed reforms.
These include whether the new arrangements will give ordinary citizens a stronger voice in decisions affecting their future, ensure political leaders and public officials are accountable, support economic development, guarantee equal treatment and protect the interests of future generations.
He says constitutional reform should improve the everyday lives of ordinary Fijians, ensure the law applies fairly regardless of a person's position, wealth or political influence, and strengthen the independence and resources of public institutions.
Party General Secretary Satish Kumar raised concerns about the legality of the amendment process, particularly the change from the three-quarter majority requirement under the 2013 Constitution to a two-thirds majority following a Supreme Court decision.
Kumar says the party wants greater clarity on the legal basis of the amendment process, stressing that Parliament exercises legislative authority while the Supreme Court operates under the Constitution.
He says the party's concerns also extends to provisions relating to immunity, warning that some existing protections are not clearly preserved in the proposed Bill.
Kumar questioned the relationship between provisions retaining parts of the existing constitutional arrangements and those repealing the 2013 Promulgation Decree.
He says this raises questions about whether protected provisions are being repealed or reduced, and recommends that a reasoned legal assessment be published, alongside clear provisions outlining which protections will remain.
The party also raised concerns about the proposed immunity arrangements, particularly the possibility of immunity extending across future governments.
Kumar says the Bill should establish an explicit historical cut-off and make clear that the new Constitution would not create additional immunity for conduct beyond that date.
On future constitutional amendments, the party expressed concern that the proposed framework will allow Parliament to make changes through parliamentary supermajorities without a referendum.
Kumar says fundamental changes affecting citizens' rights, electoral equality, constitutional supremacy and judicial independence should require direct approval from the people.
The party further raised concerns about the relationship between the proposed Constitution's founding references to Christianity and family values and its provisions prohibiting the State from favouring any religious or non-religious belief.
They recommend that religious neutrality be expressly affirmed, with protections for the freedom to believe, change one's religion or hold no religious belief.
On the Bill of Rights, Kumar says the general test for limiting rights should apply consistently across all provisions, with any restrictions required to meet the principles of legality, necessity and proportionality.
He also called for clearer provisions allowing representatives, groups and public interest organisations to bring constitutional cases, alongside accessible court procedures, cost protection and practical access to legal aid.
The submission also questioned the proposed administrative justice provisions, including the exclusion of registered companies and the delayed commencement of certain protections.
Kumar says constitutional administrative justice protections should apply from the commencement of the Constitution and should be based on the exercise of public power or a public function, rather than the legal status of an organisation.
On detention, the party raised concerns about provisions allowing detention on grounds including vagrancy, addiction or suspected unsound mind, saying these should be subject to clear requirements of necessity, proportionality and regular judicial review.
They also recommend removing status-based detention linked to poverty or vagrancy and ensuring prompt access to the courts for people detained under any category.
The party is also calling for the removal of the provision allowing lawful and moderate chastisement of children, arguing that it could undermine protections against violence and harmful practices.
Kumar says the Constitution should protect children from all forms of corporal punishment and support positive discipline and appropriate child protection measures.
On freedom of expression, the party warns that restrictions relating to attacks on the dignity of respected offices or institutions, public morality and hate speech can potentially discourage criticism, journalism, academic debate and satire.
They recommend clearer definitions of prohibited incitement and stronger protection for public interest criticism and peaceful advocacy.
The submission also highlighted concerns over customary land and marine rights, particularly the need for a clear framework to resolve overlapping claims involving customary owners, State leases, existing permits, public infrastructure and customary access.
Kumar says the Bill should provide transparent processes for mapping, claims and adjudication, while protecting fair compensation and access to judicial review where rights are affected.
The party also called for stronger constitutional provisions addressing climate change, disaster displacement and planned relocation, including consultation, replacement tenure and protection of livelihoods for displaced communities.
On the proposed governance arrangements, the party raised concerns about the independence of constitutional commissions, appointments to senior judicial positions and the composition of the Constitutional Offices Commission.
Kumar says the proposed commission structure gives government-aligned members a majority, potentially weakening independent oversight of appointments involving institutions such as the Electoral Commission, Auditor-General and Police.
He recommends replacing the political majority with independent members selected through a transparent, multi-party process.
The party also called for stronger safeguards around political financing, campaign expenditure and the misuse of State resources, as well as constitutional guarantees for regular local government elections.
Concerns were also raised about the Prime Minister's power to determine the size of Cabinet, with Kumar saying the proposed arrangements should include a reasonable limit to prevent excessive government spending at the expense of essential public services.
He says Cabinet size should reflect the country's population and financial capacity, particularly given the need to maintain public service delivery, infrastructure, health and education.
The party further recommends stronger independence in senior judicial appointments, clearer safeguards against political interference in police investigations and disciplinary matters, and a functioning independent mechanism to investigate corruption.
In her closing remarks, party president Litiana Saviki says the Constitution must protect the rights of all Fijians, including workers, farmers, business owners, teachers, students, unemployed young people, senior citizens and rural and maritime communities.
Saviki says constitutional reform should be judged by whether it benefits the people of Fiji, rather than which political party stands to gain from it.
She has called on the committee to publish a corrected consolidated version of the Bill, a transparent electoral and implementation plan, and a response to public submissions.
Saviki also stressed that fundamental changes to the Constitution in the future should continue to require the approval of the people.
SODELPA issues apology, statement was Uludole and Komaisavai's own opinionsBy Navitalai Naivalurua 13/11/2026SODELPA has clarified that recent media reports following the party’s presentation to the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill today regarding the buying back of freehold land and its conversion to iTaukei ownership were expressed by Jolame Uludole and Savenaca Komaisavai in their personal capacities and it does not reflect the official policy, manifesto, or approved position of SODELPA.
In a statement, SODELPA General Secretary Livai Vere says their formal position on the Constitution review process and suggestions for change are woven into the party submission to the Constitution Review Commission.
Vere say SODELPA’s official position remains focused on advocating for the return of unused State or Crown land—originally acquired for public purposes—back to its rightful iTaukei landowners.
He says that the party does not propose the acquisition, buy-back, or conversion of freehold land, as they recognize the legal and social complexities surrounding freehold property rights and the security of all Fijian citizens.
He adds that they remain committed to protecting the rights and interests of the iTaukei while upholding the rule of law, stability, and mutual respect among all communities in Fiji.
He says the values the party honours and how they will lead our country is embedded within their manifesto, and action plan for regenerative, unifying and transformational change, in our beloved Fiji, which will be released in due course.
SODELPA sincerely apologizes to all of Fiji citizens and friends of Fiji and all stakeholders for any inconvenience or discomfort the statement made by the two gentlemen concerned, may have caused.
Bill will die with current Parliament if rejected - RabukaBy Pita Toganivalu 14/11/2026The Constitution Amendment Bill will move to a referendum if it receives two thirds of Parliament’s support but will die with the current Parliament if rejected.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has made this clear as he acknowledges concerns that some members of the public may not have been heard during earlier consultations.
Rabuka made the comments during the Special Parliamentary Committee sitting at Tuva Primary School, where members of the public were given another opportunity to share their views on the proposed changes to Fiji’s Constitution.
He says the outcome of the parliamentary vote will determine the next step in the process, with approval allowing the Bill to proceed to a referendum.
However, if MPs vote against it, the Bill will remain there and die with the current Parliament.
He says Fiji’s desire to continue reviewing its Constitution will remain, and Members of Parliament are free to raise their concerns and propose amendments if they have enough support in the House.
Rabuka also points out that the Constitution provides for periodic reviews, allowing the country to revisit its constitutional arrangements in the future.
He says a review has already been carried out, with Attorney-General Sevuloni Valenitabua serving as the commissioner of the review commission.
Rabuka says the commission’s report was taken to Cabinet before being brought to Parliament, and the proposed Bill has gone through considerable scrutiny.
He says the committee has returned to conduct further consultations because there are concerns that some people may still feel their views were not heard during the earlier process.
Rabuka says the committee will first listen to the public’s submissions before proceeding with its usual committee processes and procedures.
Meanwhile, Mata ni Tikina of Malomalo, Emoni Rokomoce, says he has participated in the consultation process and has been informing the tikina about the proposed constitutional changes.
Rokomoce says they agree with the changes and the consultation process, adding that they are grateful that the Great Council of Chiefs is recognised as lawful.
He also says the people need the Constitution to be changed.
Students call for stronger protection against corporal punishment, bullying and financial hardshipBy Karishma Kumari 15/11/2026Students have called for stronger constitutional protection against corporal punishment, better systems to address bullying, a review of tertiary student allowances and stronger online safety measures during the public consultation on the Constitution Amendment Bill at Votualevu School.
While making her submission, the Head Girl of Votualevu College, Grace Ritishma Chand raised concerns about the proposed inclusion of the phrase "lawful and moderate chastisement" in the Constitution Amendment Bill saying that the wording is concerning because Section 11 of the Constitution already guarantees freedom from cruel and degrading treatment, while Section 41 protects children from abuse, violence and inhumane punishment.
She says the proposed wording could create a loophole allowing violence against children to be justified as discipline.
Chand says corporal punishment can affect students physically, emotionally and psychologically, and children should instead be corrected through guidance, counselling and positive discipline.
She is calling for the Constitution to maintain strong protection for children and exclude any provision that could permit corporal punishment.
Sharing her personal experience of being bullied at school, Chand says it affected her mental and emotional well-being.
However, she says she was able to stand up for herself with the support of her school heads but questioned what happens to students who lack the confidence to report bullying.
She says students who report bullying should be listened to, taken seriously and supported rather than ignored or silenced.
The head girl is calling for confidential reporting channels in every school, protection for students who report bullying and the publication of annual bullying statistics.
She also raised concerns about the financial difficulties faced by tertiary students, particularly those receiving assistance through the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service hardship scheme.
Chand says students reportedly receive $1,000 per semester under the hardship scheme, while rental accommodation alone can cost between $300 and $600 a month.
She says students also have to meet transportation, food, electricity, water, internet and other education-related expenses.
Chand calls for hardship allowances to be reviewed annually to reflect the actual cost of living.
She also wants the right to education strengthened so that students are not prevented from pursuing their studies because of financial difficulties.
On online safety, she says students continue to face cyberbullying and harassment, with online disagreements sometimes leading to physical confrontations at school.
The head girl also called for online safety education in every school, confidential reporting systems for cyberbullying and adequate funding for the Online Safety Commission.
Meanwhile, 17-year-old Assistant Head Girl Manvi Chandra called for the reintroduction of the Year 10 National Examination stating that students currently face a three-year gap between the Year 8 and Year 12 National Examinations, which can affect their examination discipline, consistency and confidence.
She believes bringing back the Year 10 examination would help identify academic weaknesses earlier and better prepare students for the Year 12 and Year 13 examinations.
Chandra also believes the examination could strengthen students' academic foundations and reduce reliance on scaling.
Deputy Head Girl Risha Raj, raised concerns about the rising cost of accommodation for tertiary students.
Raj says university dormitories are mostly available to first-year students, leaving many students to find private rental accommodation from their second year onwards.
She says increasing rental costs are forcing students to spend excessive hours working part-time to pay for accommodation, affecting their studies.
Raj says this is particularly difficult for students pursuing medical and science-related programmes, where laboratory and clinical commitments leave little time for outside employment.
She is calling on the Government to look closely at the issue and provide adequate assistance so students can focus on their academic studies.
The People First Party is warning against rushing the Constitution Amendment Bill, saying citizens must be given sufficient time to understand the proposed changes and their implications before any decision is made.
Presenting the party's submission to the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, People First representative Rinesh Sharma says the party deliberately chose not to participate in the Constitution Review Commission process from the beginning because it disputed the correctness and legitimacy of the process.
Sharma stresses that the party's participation in the parliamentary special committee does not mean it supports the Bill.
Sharma warns that rushing the constitutional process could harm the country, saying changing or drafting a Constitution is one of the most important tasks a nation can undertake and should not be treated like ordinary legislation.
Sharma says hurried debates and short deadlines deprive citizens of the time needed to read, understand and discuss the proposed changes.
He says the 150-page Bill, containing 229 clauses and complex legal language, creates a barrier for ordinary citizens trying to understand their rights and how the proposed changes could affect their lives.
Sharma says widespread public awareness, advocacy and civic education programmes must be conducted before any vote takes place.
He says major constitutional changes should be decided through a referendum rather than Parliament having the final say.
Sharma says a referendum would give every eligible voter an equal opportunity to approve or reject changes to the country's supreme law.
He also warns against concentrating power in one person or a small group, saying when people lose their say in how fundamental rules are made, democracy exists only in name.
On the proposed recognition of the Bose Levu Vakaturaga, People First says it respects the traditional chiefly system but believes its role should remain focused on customary and traditional leadership rather than national governance.
The party says governance should remain with democratically elected representatives and that traditional structures should not override democratic principles of equality and inclusive representation.
People First representative Arista Bosei says the appointment of the President should return to the 2013 Constitution, under which the Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition each nominate a candidate for Parliament to vote on.
He recommends that every political party represented in Parliament should also be allowed to nominate a candidate.
Bosei says the President, as Head of State, must represent all citizens equally, while the BLV represents a single community.
Bosei says restricting presidential nominations to the BLV effectively limits the office to hereditary chiefly ranks, permanently excluding ordinary iTaukei citizens and all other Fijians from aspiring to the nation's highest office on the basis of merit, service and capability.
Opposition MP Sachida Nand challenged the party's interpretation, saying there was no provision in the draft Bill stating that the BLV must appoint someone with chiefly rank as President.
Rinesh Sharma says the party is concerned about possible interpretations arising from what it considers ambiguous provisions in the Bill and believes it is important to consider potential scenarios where provisions are not clearly defined.
Attorney General Sevuloni Valenitabua also questioned the party's interpretation, saying the clause speaks for itself and that it appeared the party was making assumptions about the exclusion of other candidates.
People First strongly opposes the establishment of a Senate, saying Fiji cannot afford the substantial recurring financial burden.
A party representative estimates that establishing a separate institution, including its own Secretary-General, secretariat and administrative structure, would cost between $15 million and $20 million annually.
The party says if the committee nevertheless decides to establish a Senate, its members must be democratically elected rather than appointed.
People First representative Lusia Vusanimasei recommends removing the reference to Christianity and replacing it with either 'God' or 'religion'.
She says the current wording contradicts the constitutional protection of freedom of religion, conscience and belief.
Vusanimasei also recommends retaining Fiji as a secular state rather than changing the heading of clause four to religious liberty.
She says a secular state remains neutral in matters of religion and protects both government institutions and individual beliefs.
However, Valenitabua says the Constitution Review Commission deliberately changed the heading from secular state to religious liberty following submissions received from members of the public.
Valenitabua says there was overwhelming support among citizens who made submissions for the removal of the term secular state.
He says the provisions under clause four remain unchanged and protect the religious rights of every person.
People First also wants Fiji to remain one national constituency under the 2013 electoral system.
The party supports the principle of one person, one vote, one value, saying a single national constituency guarantees equal voting weight, minimises boundary manipulation and reduces wasted votes through proportional representation.
It says the system also encourages political leaders to pursue national unity rather than communal or regional politics.
Valenitabua questioned the party's position, saying submissions to the Constitution Review Commission had shown strong interest in constituency-based representation so people would know who their representatives are.
Sharma maintained the party's position, saying it supports retaining the existing system and had come before the committee to present its recommendations for consideration.
Valenitabua explains that the heading was changed because the term secular state had attracted objections from some members of the public, particularly iTaukei citizens, and the change does not affect the substance of the religious liberty provisions.
People First representative Mohammed Saiyaz Khan calls for the removal of the provision allowing lawful and moderate chastisement for the purposes of correction.
The party also supports retaining Fijian as the national identity while their representative Virendra Lal says the party supports retaining the national identity under clause six.
Party member Hazrat Ali says the party also supports equal citizenship, maintaining that every citizen should be treated equally regardless of race, religion or ethnicity.
Sharma also calls for stronger constitutional protection to ensure freehold land remains freehold land under future governments.
The party also recommends including Hindi in clause 52 on group rights, alongside iTaukei and Rotuman languages.
It says Hindi is already formally recognised under other constitutional provisions, including a requirement for it to be taught as a compulsory subject in primary schools.
People First is also calling for a stronger role for the Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission, recommending that it be allowed to challenge potentially unconstitutional actions, assist the courts and scrutinise proposed legislation before it becomes law.
The party recommends removing the position of Vice President, describing it as financially unnecessary and the office would require additional salaries, allowances, an official residence, security and administrative support for what is largely a ceremonial role.
The party says the existing arrangement, under which the Chief Justice acts as President during the President's absence or incapacity, has provided continuity without additional costs.
People First recommends that the size of Cabinet and its associated administrative costs be maintained at a fixed percentage of national revenue.
It says the size of the executive should increase or decrease in proportion to the country's economic performance and available fiscal space.
Acting Chair Viliame Gavoka questioned whether this would restrict the Prime Minister's ability to restructure ministries and portfolios.
Sharma clarified that its concern was the overall operating cost of Cabinet, including the number of ministers and assistant ministers, saying a larger government does not necessarily guarantee greater productivity.
On the appointment of the Attorney General, the party recommends increasing the period without professional misconduct sanctions from eight years to 10 years.
It says this would make the eligibility requirements consistent with those applying to judges under the proposed Constitution.
The party also recommends that the Chief Justice and President of the Court of Appeal be appointed on the advice of the Judicial Services Commission, following consultations with the Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition.
Sharma also calls for the reinstatement of the Code of Conduct and Accountability and Transparency Commission under the 2013 Constitution.
He says the commission should establish binding ethical standards for the President, Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Prime Minister, Ministers, Members of Parliament, permanent secretaries, members of commissions and other senior public office holders.
Sharma says an independent enforcement body would help prevent conflicts of interest, eliminate political self-policing and strengthen public confidence in public office holders.
They also recommend retaining FICAC as repealing the existing legislation without a fully operational constitutional replacement could affect FICAC's investigative powers, ongoing investigations and court proceedings.
He says FICAC must retain its legal mandate and constitutional standing to prevent a possible gap in the investigation and prosecution of corruption-related matters.
People First also wants the reinstatement of the Transparency and Accountability Commission to monitor conflicts of interest, declarations and potential abuse of public office.
Consultation on the Bill continues as the Special Committee will be at the Tuva Primary School in Nadroga from 10am to midday and from 3pm to 5pm at the Votualevu College Hall in Nadi tomorrow.
We Unite Fiji says constitutional reform must benefit ordinary Fijians, not politiciansBy Temalesi Vono 15/11/2026Picture: Fiji ParliamentThe proposed Constitution (Amendment) Bill must deliver stronger democracy, protect human rights, ensure accountability and safeguard the interests of ordinary Fijians, rather than benefit those holding political power.
This was the message from the We Unite Fiji Party during their submission before the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, where the party raised concerns over several provisions and called for greater clarity, legal safeguards and public consultation before the Bill is adopted.
Party Leader Ruveni Nadalo says Fiji needs a constitutional reform that strengthens equal citizenship, protects customary land and culture, and makes every public institution accountable to the people.
Nadalo acknowledged that the Bill contains worthwhile objectives but says it is not ready for adoption in its present form.
He says Fiji had gone through four constitutions since independence in 1970 - in 1970, 1990, 1997 and 2013, and stresses the importance of ensuring the country does not continue experiencing constitutional changes without addressing the underlying issues.
Nadalo is urging Fijians, regardless of ethnicity, religion, political affiliation or social background, to consider five key questions when assessing the proposed reforms.
These include whether the new arrangements will give ordinary citizens a stronger voice in decisions affecting their future, ensure political leaders and public officials are accountable, support economic development, guarantee equal treatment and protect the interests of future generations.
He says constitutional reform should improve the everyday lives of ordinary Fijians, ensure the law applies fairly regardless of a person's position, wealth or political influence, and strengthen the independence and resources of public institutions.
Party General Secretary Satish Kumar raised concerns about the legality of the amendment process, particularly the change from the three-quarter majority requirement under the 2013 Constitution to a two-thirds majority following a Supreme Court decision.
Kumar says the party wants greater clarity on the legal basis of the amendment process, stressing that Parliament exercises legislative authority while the Supreme Court operates under the Constitution.
He says the party's concerns also extends to provisions relating to immunity, warning that some existing protections are not clearly preserved in the proposed Bill.
Kumar questioned the relationship between provisions retaining parts of the existing constitutional arrangements and those repealing the 2013 Promulgation Decree.
He says this raises questions about whether protected provisions are being repealed or reduced, and recommends that a reasoned legal assessment be published, alongside clear provisions outlining which protections will remain.
The party also raised concerns about the proposed immunity arrangements, particularly the possibility of immunity extending across future governments.
Kumar says the Bill should establish an explicit historical cut-off and make clear that the new Constitution would not create additional immunity for conduct beyond that date.
On future constitutional amendments, the party expressed concern that the proposed framework will allow Parliament to make changes through parliamentary supermajorities without a referendum.
Kumar says fundamental changes affecting citizens' rights, electoral equality, constitutional supremacy and judicial independence should require direct approval from the people.
The party further raised concerns about the relationship between the proposed Constitution's founding references to Christianity and family values and its provisions prohibiting the State from favouring any religious or non-religious belief.
They recommend that religious neutrality be expressly affirmed, with protections for the freedom to believe, change one's religion or hold no religious belief.
On the Bill of Rights, Kumar says the general test for limiting rights should apply consistently across all provisions, with any restrictions required to meet the principles of legality, necessity and proportionality.
He also called for clearer provisions allowing representatives, groups and public interest organisations to bring constitutional cases, alongside accessible court procedures, cost protection and practical access to legal aid.
The submission also questioned the proposed administrative justice provisions, including the exclusion of registered companies and the delayed commencement of certain protections.
Kumar says constitutional administrative justice protections should apply from the commencement of the Constitution and should be based on the exercise of public power or a public function, rather than the legal status of an organisation.
On detention, the party raised concerns about provisions allowing detention on grounds including vagrancy, addiction or suspected unsound mind, saying these should be subject to clear requirements of necessity, proportionality and regular judicial review.
They also recommend removing status-based detention linked to poverty or vagrancy and ensuring prompt access to the courts for people detained under any category.
The party is also calling for the removal of the provision allowing lawful and moderate chastisement of children, arguing that it could undermine protections against violence and harmful practices.
Kumar says the Constitution should protect children from all forms of corporal punishment and support positive discipline and appropriate child protection measures.
On freedom of expression, the party warns that restrictions relating to attacks on the dignity of respected offices or institutions, public morality and hate speech can potentially discourage criticism, journalism, academic debate and satire.
They recommend clearer definitions of prohibited incitement and stronger protection for public interest criticism and peaceful advocacy.
The submission also highlighted concerns over customary land and marine rights, particularly the need for a clear framework to resolve overlapping claims involving customary owners, State leases, existing permits, public infrastructure and customary access.
Kumar says the Bill should provide transparent processes for mapping, claims and adjudication, while protecting fair compensation and access to judicial review where rights are affected.
The party also called for stronger constitutional provisions addressing climate change, disaster displacement and planned relocation, including consultation, replacement tenure and protection of livelihoods for displaced communities.
On the proposed governance arrangements, the party raised concerns about the independence of constitutional commissions, appointments to senior judicial positions and the composition of the Constitutional Offices Commission.
Kumar says the proposed commission structure gives government-aligned members a majority, potentially weakening independent oversight of appointments involving institutions such as the Electoral Commission, Auditor-General and Police.
He recommends replacing the political majority with independent members selected through a transparent, multi-party process.
The party also called for stronger safeguards around political financing, campaign expenditure and the misuse of State resources, as well as constitutional guarantees for regular local government elections.
Concerns were also raised about the Prime Minister's power to determine the size of Cabinet, with Kumar saying the proposed arrangements should include a reasonable limit to prevent excessive government spending at the expense of essential public services.
He says Cabinet size should reflect the country's population and financial capacity, particularly given the need to maintain public service delivery, infrastructure, health and education.
The party further recommends stronger independence in senior judicial appointments, clearer safeguards against political interference in police investigations and disciplinary matters, and a functioning independent mechanism to investigate corruption.
In her closing remarks, party president Litiana Saviki says the Constitution must protect the rights of all Fijians, including workers, farmers, business owners, teachers, students, unemployed young people, senior citizens and rural and maritime communities.
Saviki says constitutional reform should be judged by whether it benefits the people of Fiji, rather than which political party stands to gain from it.
She has called on the committee to publish a corrected consolidated version of the Bill, a transparent electoral and implementation plan, and a response to public submissions.
Saviki also stressed that fundamental changes to the Constitution in the future should continue to require the approval of the people.
SODELPA issues apology, statement was Uludole and Komaisavai's own opinionsBy Navitalai Naivalurua 13/11/2026SODELPA has clarified that recent media reports following the party’s presentation to the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill today regarding the buying back of freehold land and its conversion to iTaukei ownership were expressed by Jolame Uludole and Savenaca Komaisavai in their personal capacities and it does not reflect the official policy, manifesto, or approved position of SODELPA.
In a statement, SODELPA General Secretary Livai Vere says their formal position on the Constitution review process and suggestions for change are woven into the party submission to the Constitution Review Commission.
Vere say SODELPA’s official position remains focused on advocating for the return of unused State or Crown land—originally acquired for public purposes—back to its rightful iTaukei landowners.
He says that the party does not propose the acquisition, buy-back, or conversion of freehold land, as they recognize the legal and social complexities surrounding freehold property rights and the security of all Fijian citizens.
He adds that they remain committed to protecting the rights and interests of the iTaukei while upholding the rule of law, stability, and mutual respect among all communities in Fiji.
He says the values the party honours and how they will lead our country is embedded within their manifesto, and action plan for regenerative, unifying and transformational change, in our beloved Fiji, which will be released in due course.
SODELPA sincerely apologizes to all of Fiji citizens and friends of Fiji and all stakeholders for any inconvenience or discomfort the statement made by the two gentlemen concerned, may have caused.
Bill will die with current Parliament if rejected - RabukaBy Pita Toganivalu 14/11/2026The Constitution Amendment Bill will move to a referendum if it receives two thirds of Parliament’s support but will die with the current Parliament if rejected.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has made this clear as he acknowledges concerns that some members of the public may not have been heard during earlier consultations.
Rabuka made the comments during the Special Parliamentary Committee sitting at Tuva Primary School, where members of the public were given another opportunity to share their views on the proposed changes to Fiji’s Constitution.
He says the outcome of the parliamentary vote will determine the next step in the process, with approval allowing the Bill to proceed to a referendum.
However, if MPs vote against it, the Bill will remain there and die with the current Parliament.
He says Fiji’s desire to continue reviewing its Constitution will remain, and Members of Parliament are free to raise their concerns and propose amendments if they have enough support in the House.
Rabuka also points out that the Constitution provides for periodic reviews, allowing the country to revisit its constitutional arrangements in the future.
He says a review has already been carried out, with Attorney-General Sevuloni Valenitabua serving as the commissioner of the review commission.
Rabuka says the commission’s report was taken to Cabinet before being brought to Parliament, and the proposed Bill has gone through considerable scrutiny.
He says the committee has returned to conduct further consultations because there are concerns that some people may still feel their views were not heard during the earlier process.
Rabuka says the committee will first listen to the public’s submissions before proceeding with its usual committee processes and procedures.
Meanwhile, Mata ni Tikina of Malomalo, Emoni Rokomoce, says he has participated in the consultation process and has been informing the tikina about the proposed constitutional changes.
Rokomoce says they agree with the changes and the consultation process, adding that they are grateful that the Great Council of Chiefs is recognised as lawful.
He also says the people need the Constitution to be changed.
Students call for stronger protection against corporal punishment, bullying and financial hardshipBy Karishma Kumari 15/11/2026Students have called for stronger constitutional protection against corporal punishment, better systems to address bullying, a review of tertiary student allowances and stronger online safety measures during the public consultation on the Constitution Amendment Bill at Votualevu School.
While making her submission, the Head Girl of Votualevu College, Grace Ritishma Chand raised concerns about the proposed inclusion of the phrase "lawful and moderate chastisement" in the Constitution Amendment Bill saying that the wording is concerning because Section 11 of the Constitution already guarantees freedom from cruel and degrading treatment, while Section 41 protects children from abuse, violence and inhumane punishment.
She says the proposed wording could create a loophole allowing violence against children to be justified as discipline.
Chand says corporal punishment can affect students physically, emotionally and psychologically, and children should instead be corrected through guidance, counselling and positive discipline.
She is calling for the Constitution to maintain strong protection for children and exclude any provision that could permit corporal punishment.
Sharing her personal experience of being bullied at school, Chand says it affected her mental and emotional well-being.
However, she says she was able to stand up for herself with the support of her school heads but questioned what happens to students who lack the confidence to report bullying.
She says students who report bullying should be listened to, taken seriously and supported rather than ignored or silenced.
The head girl is calling for confidential reporting channels in every school, protection for students who report bullying and the publication of annual bullying statistics.
She also raised concerns about the financial difficulties faced by tertiary students, particularly those receiving assistance through the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service hardship scheme.
Chand says students reportedly receive $1,000 per semester under the hardship scheme, while rental accommodation alone can cost between $300 and $600 a month.
She says students also have to meet transportation, food, electricity, water, internet and other education-related expenses.
Chand calls for hardship allowances to be reviewed annually to reflect the actual cost of living.
She also wants the right to education strengthened so that students are not prevented from pursuing their studies because of financial difficulties.
On online safety, she says students continue to face cyberbullying and harassment, with online disagreements sometimes leading to physical confrontations at school.
The head girl also called for online safety education in every school, confidential reporting systems for cyberbullying and adequate funding for the Online Safety Commission.
Meanwhile, 17-year-old Assistant Head Girl Manvi Chandra called for the reintroduction of the Year 10 National Examination stating that students currently face a three-year gap between the Year 8 and Year 12 National Examinations, which can affect their examination discipline, consistency and confidence.
She believes bringing back the Year 10 examination would help identify academic weaknesses earlier and better prepare students for the Year 12 and Year 13 examinations.
Chandra also believes the examination could strengthen students' academic foundations and reduce reliance on scaling.
Deputy Head Girl Risha Raj, raised concerns about the rising cost of accommodation for tertiary students.
Raj says university dormitories are mostly available to first-year students, leaving many students to find private rental accommodation from their second year onwards.
She says increasing rental costs are forcing students to spend excessive hours working part-time to pay for accommodation, affecting their studies.
Raj says this is particularly difficult for students pursuing medical and science-related programmes, where laboratory and clinical commitments leave little time for outside employment.
She is calling on the Government to look closely at the issue and provide adequate assistance so students can focus on their academic studies.
The proposed Constitution (Amendment) Bill must deliver stronger democracy, protect human rights, ensure accountability and safeguard the interests of ordinary Fijians, rather than benefit those holding political power.
This was the message from the We Unite Fiji Party during their submission before the Parliamentary Special Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, where the party raised concerns over several provisions and called for greater clarity, legal safeguards and public consultation before the Bill is adopted.
Party Leader Ruveni Nadalo says Fiji needs a constitutional reform that strengthens equal citizenship, protects customary land and culture, and makes every public institution accountable to the people.
Nadalo acknowledged that the Bill contains worthwhile objectives but says it is not ready for adoption in its present form.
He says Fiji had gone through four constitutions since independence in 1970 - in 1970, 1990, 1997 and 2013, and stresses the importance of ensuring the country does not continue experiencing constitutional changes without addressing the underlying issues.
Nadalo is urging Fijians, regardless of ethnicity, religion, political affiliation or social background, to consider five key questions when assessing the proposed reforms.
These include whether the new arrangements will give ordinary citizens a stronger voice in decisions affecting their future, ensure political leaders and public officials are accountable, support economic development, guarantee equal treatment and protect the interests of future generations.
He says constitutional reform should improve the everyday lives of ordinary Fijians, ensure the law applies fairly regardless of a person's position, wealth or political influence, and strengthen the independence and resources of public institutions.
Party General Secretary Satish Kumar raised concerns about the legality of the amendment process, particularly the change from the three-quarter majority requirement under the 2013 Constitution to a two-thirds majority following a Supreme Court decision.
Kumar says the party wants greater clarity on the legal basis of the amendment process, stressing that Parliament exercises legislative authority while the Supreme Court operates under the Constitution.
He says the party's concerns also extends to provisions relating to immunity, warning that some existing protections are not clearly preserved in the proposed Bill.
Kumar questioned the relationship between provisions retaining parts of the existing constitutional arrangements and those repealing the 2013 Promulgation Decree.
He says this raises questions about whether protected provisions are being repealed or reduced, and recommends that a reasoned legal assessment be published, alongside clear provisions outlining which protections will remain.
The party also raised concerns about the proposed immunity arrangements, particularly the possibility of immunity extending across future governments.
Kumar says the Bill should establish an explicit historical cut-off and make clear that the new Constitution would not create additional immunity for conduct beyond that date.
On future constitutional amendments, the party expressed concern that the proposed framework will allow Parliament to make changes through parliamentary supermajorities without a referendum.
Kumar says fundamental changes affecting citizens' rights, electoral equality, constitutional supremacy and judicial independence should require direct approval from the people.
The party further raised concerns about the relationship between the proposed Constitution's founding references to Christianity and family values and its provisions prohibiting the State from favouring any religious or non-religious belief.
They recommend that religious neutrality be expressly affirmed, with protections for the freedom to believe, change one's religion or hold no religious belief.
On the Bill of Rights, Kumar says the general test for limiting rights should apply consistently across all provisions, with any restrictions required to meet the principles of legality, necessity and proportionality.
He also called for clearer provisions allowing representatives, groups and public interest organisations to bring constitutional cases, alongside accessible court procedures, cost protection and practical access to legal aid.
The submission also questioned the proposed administrative justice provisions, including the exclusion of registered companies and the delayed commencement of certain protections.
Kumar says constitutional administrative justice protections should apply from the commencement of the Constitution and should be based on the exercise of public power or a public function, rather than the legal status of an organisation.
On detention, the party raised concerns about provisions allowing detention on grounds including vagrancy, addiction or suspected unsound mind, saying these should be subject to clear requirements of necessity, proportionality and regular judicial review.
They also recommend removing status-based detention linked to poverty or vagrancy and ensuring prompt access to the courts for people detained under any category.
The party is also calling for the removal of the provision allowing lawful and moderate chastisement of children, arguing that it could undermine protections against violence and harmful practices.
Kumar says the Constitution should protect children from all forms of corporal punishment and support positive discipline and appropriate child protection measures.
On freedom of expression, the party warns that restrictions relating to attacks on the dignity of respected offices or institutions, public morality and hate speech can potentially discourage criticism, journalism, academic debate and satire.
They recommend clearer definitions of prohibited incitement and stronger protection for public interest criticism and peaceful advocacy.
The submission also highlighted concerns over customary land and marine rights, particularly the need for a clear framework to resolve overlapping claims involving customary owners, State leases, existing permits, public infrastructure and customary access.
Kumar says the Bill should provide transparent processes for mapping, claims and adjudication, while protecting fair compensation and access to judicial review where rights are affected.
The party also called for stronger constitutional provisions addressing climate change, disaster displacement and planned relocation, including consultation, replacement tenure and protection of livelihoods for displaced communities.
On the proposed governance arrangements, the party raised concerns about the independence of constitutional commissions, appointments to senior judicial positions and the composition of the Constitutional Offices Commission.
Kumar says the proposed commission structure gives government-aligned members a majority, potentially weakening independent oversight of appointments involving institutions such as the Electoral Commission, Auditor-General and Police.
He recommends replacing the political majority with independent members selected through a transparent, multi-party process.
The party also called for stronger safeguards around political financing, campaign expenditure and the misuse of State resources, as well as constitutional guarantees for regular local government elections.
Concerns were also raised about the Prime Minister's power to determine the size of Cabinet, with Kumar saying the proposed arrangements should include a reasonable limit to prevent excessive government spending at the expense of essential public services.
He says Cabinet size should reflect the country's population and financial capacity, particularly given the need to maintain public service delivery, infrastructure, health and education.
The party further recommends stronger independence in senior judicial appointments, clearer safeguards against political interference in police investigations and disciplinary matters, and a functioning independent mechanism to investigate corruption.
In her closing remarks, party president Litiana Saviki says the Constitution must protect the rights of all Fijians, including workers, farmers, business owners, teachers, students, unemployed young people, senior citizens and rural and maritime communities.
Saviki says constitutional reform should be judged by whether it benefits the people of Fiji, rather than which political party stands to gain from it.
She has called on the committee to publish a corrected consolidated version of the Bill, a transparent electoral and implementation plan, and a response to public submissions.
Saviki also stressed that fundamental changes to the Constitution in the future should continue to require the approval of the people.
Bill will die with current Parliament if rejected - RabukaBy Pita Toganivalu 14/11/2026The Constitution Amendment Bill will move to a referendum if it receives two thirds of Parliament’s support but will die with the current Parliament if rejected.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has made this clear as he acknowledges concerns that some members of the public may not have been heard during earlier consultations.
Rabuka made the comments during the Special Parliamentary Committee sitting at Tuva Primary School, where members of the public were given another opportunity to share their views on the proposed changes to Fiji’s Constitution.
He says the outcome of the parliamentary vote will determine the next step in the process, with approval allowing the Bill to proceed to a referendum.
However, if MPs vote against it, the Bill will remain there and die with the current Parliament.
He says Fiji’s desire to continue reviewing its Constitution will remain, and Members of Parliament are free to raise their concerns and propose amendments if they have enough support in the House.
Rabuka also points out that the Constitution provides for periodic reviews, allowing the country to revisit its constitutional arrangements in the future.
He says a review has already been carried out, with Attorney-General Sevuloni Valenitabua serving as the commissioner of the review commission.
Rabuka says the commission’s report was taken to Cabinet before being brought to Parliament, and the proposed Bill has gone through considerable scrutiny.
He says the committee has returned to conduct further consultations because there are concerns that some people may still feel their views were not heard during the earlier process.
Rabuka says the committee will first listen to the public’s submissions before proceeding with its usual committee processes and procedures.
Meanwhile, Mata ni Tikina of Malomalo, Emoni Rokomoce, says he has participated in the consultation process and has been informing the tikina about the proposed constitutional changes.
Rokomoce says they agree with the changes and the consultation process, adding that they are grateful that the Great Council of Chiefs is recognised as lawful.
He also says the people need the Constitution to be changed.
Students call for stronger protection against corporal punishment, bullying and financial hardshipBy Karishma Kumari 15/11/2026Students have called for stronger constitutional protection against corporal punishment, better systems to address bullying, a review of tertiary student allowances and stronger online safety measures during the public consultation on the Constitution Amendment Bill at Votualevu School.
While making her submission, the Head Girl of Votualevu College, Grace Ritishma Chand raised concerns about the proposed inclusion of the phrase "lawful and moderate chastisement" in the Constitution Amendment Bill saying that the wording is concerning because Section 11 of the Constitution already guarantees freedom from cruel and degrading treatment, while Section 41 protects children from abuse, violence and inhumane punishment.
She says the proposed wording could create a loophole allowing violence against children to be justified as discipline.
Chand says corporal punishment can affect students physically, emotionally and psychologically, and children should instead be corrected through guidance, counselling and positive discipline.
She is calling for the Constitution to maintain strong protection for children and exclude any provision that could permit corporal punishment.
Sharing her personal experience of being bullied at school, Chand says it affected her mental and emotional well-being.
However, she says she was able to stand up for herself with the support of her school heads but questioned what happens to students who lack the confidence to report bullying.
She says students who report bullying should be listened to, taken seriously and supported rather than ignored or silenced.
The head girl is calling for confidential reporting channels in every school, protection for students who report bullying and the publication of annual bullying statistics.
She also raised concerns about the financial difficulties faced by tertiary students, particularly those receiving assistance through the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service hardship scheme.
Chand says students reportedly receive $1,000 per semester under the hardship scheme, while rental accommodation alone can cost between $300 and $600 a month.
She says students also have to meet transportation, food, electricity, water, internet and other education-related expenses.
Chand calls for hardship allowances to be reviewed annually to reflect the actual cost of living.
She also wants the right to education strengthened so that students are not prevented from pursuing their studies because of financial difficulties.
On online safety, she says students continue to face cyberbullying and harassment, with online disagreements sometimes leading to physical confrontations at school.
The head girl also called for online safety education in every school, confidential reporting systems for cyberbullying and adequate funding for the Online Safety Commission.
Meanwhile, 17-year-old Assistant Head Girl Manvi Chandra called for the reintroduction of the Year 10 National Examination stating that students currently face a three-year gap between the Year 8 and Year 12 National Examinations, which can affect their examination discipline, consistency and confidence.
She believes bringing back the Year 10 examination would help identify academic weaknesses earlier and better prepare students for the Year 12 and Year 13 examinations.
Chandra also believes the examination could strengthen students' academic foundations and reduce reliance on scaling.
Deputy Head Girl Risha Raj, raised concerns about the rising cost of accommodation for tertiary students.
Raj says university dormitories are mostly available to first-year students, leaving many students to find private rental accommodation from their second year onwards.
She says increasing rental costs are forcing students to spend excessive hours working part-time to pay for accommodation, affecting their studies.
Raj says this is particularly difficult for students pursuing medical and science-related programmes, where laboratory and clinical commitments leave little time for outside employment.
She is calling on the Government to look closely at the issue and provide adequate assistance so students can focus on their academic studies.
The Constitution Amendment Bill will move to a referendum if it receives two thirds of Parliament’s support but will die with the current Parliament if rejected.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has made this clear as he acknowledges concerns that some members of the public may not have been heard during earlier consultations.
Rabuka made the comments during the Special Parliamentary Committee sitting at Tuva Primary School, where members of the public were given another opportunity to share their views on the proposed changes to Fiji’s Constitution.
He says the outcome of the parliamentary vote will determine the next step in the process, with approval allowing the Bill to proceed to a referendum.
However, if MPs vote against it, the Bill will remain there and die with the current Parliament.
He says Fiji’s desire to continue reviewing its Constitution will remain, and Members of Parliament are free to raise their concerns and propose amendments if they have enough support in the House.
Rabuka also points out that the Constitution provides for periodic reviews, allowing the country to revisit its constitutional arrangements in the future.
He says a review has already been carried out, with Attorney-General Sevuloni Valenitabua serving as the commissioner of the review commission.
Rabuka says the commission’s report was taken to Cabinet before being brought to Parliament, and the proposed Bill has gone through considerable scrutiny.
He says the committee has returned to conduct further consultations because there are concerns that some people may still feel their views were not heard during the earlier process.
Rabuka says the committee will first listen to the public’s submissions before proceeding with its usual committee processes and procedures.
Meanwhile, Mata ni Tikina of Malomalo, Emoni Rokomoce, says he has participated in the consultation process and has been informing the tikina about the proposed constitutional changes.
Rokomoce says they agree with the changes and the consultation process, adding that they are grateful that the Great Council of Chiefs is recognised as lawful.
He also says the people need the Constitution to be changed.
