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: 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.
