Number of submissions will not automatically decide constitutional changes - Constitution Review Commission

The clarification comes as the Commission travels around the country gathering views from Fijians on possible changes to the 2013 Constitution.

The review process was initiated after Government’s attempt to amend the Constitution failed in Parliament, and following the opinion of the Supreme Court, the Commission was appointed to carry out a review.

While answering questions on fijivillage Straight Talk with Vijay Narayan, Commission member, Dr Neelesh Gounder highlighted that analysing submissions is one of the most difficult tasks in the review process.

Dr Goundar says that if an issue has been highlighted by many people, it does not necessarily mean that the recommendation should dominate those issues.

He says they are guided by certain fundamental principles, and one of those is that the Constitution must focus on democratic governance.

He says if there are issues around reversing democratic governance, then they certainly cannot consider that.

Dr Gounder says the Commission will not simply collect submissions, but will carry out a deeper analysis on the logic behind each submission and how it fits into the future of Fiji.

He adds that factors such as separation of powers, social cohesion and national unity will also be considered.

Chairman Sevuloni Valenitabua says the Commission has already begun collecting recommendations, views and suggestions through consultations across the country, and so far about 24 consultations have been carried out with targeted groups.

Valenitabua says all submissions, whether they are recommendations, views or general thoughts, will be collected and assessed.

He says these will later be compiled and used to formulate a document containing recommendations for amendments.

He stresses that the Commission’s role is to review the Constitution and recommend amendments, not to produce a new Constitution.

Valenitabua says after the analysis, the recommendations will be turned into a draft amendment Bill with the help of an overseas constitutional lawyer and legal drafter.

He adds that the Commission has six months to complete its work and submit its report to the President by 31st August, which will mark the end of the Commission’s work.