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.
