A seven-member Constitutional Review Commission was commissioned by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu during a ceremony held at the State House.
The issuance of the Presidential Warrant establishing the Commission and the swearing-in of the members of the Commission marks the beginning of the constitutional review process.
The review is an important step towards strengthening Fiji’s democracy and improving the nation's governance.
The Commission, comprising Sevuloni Valenitabua as Chairperson, Ami Kohli, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, Dr Neelesh Gounder, Merewalesi Nailatikau, Dr John Fatiaki, and Conway Begi, is to submit its Final Report to the President by 31st August 2026.
The Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Speaker of Parliament Filimone Jitoko, Chief Justice Salesi Temo, Cabinet Ministers, and family members of the CRC Commissioners attended the ceremony.
The establishment of the Commission reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring that our supreme law, the Constitution, reflects the needs and aspirations of its people.
The Commission's work will also address observations made by the Supreme Court of Fiji regarding democratic shortcomings in the 2013 Constitution.
The Commission will inquire into these concerns by consulting the public, receiving and analysing submissions, and reporting its findings and recommendations to the President.
The review process aims to help shape a Constitution that reflects the wishes and needs of the people of Fiji and strengthens the country’s democratic governance.
The Commission will be supported by a secretariat and constitutional law experts.
To facilitate the process, the Cabinet has allocated $1 million to support the work of the Commission.
The Commission’s final report and recommendations will be submitted to the President and Cabinet before they are tabled in Parliament.
