Ba business owner Sevanaia Levuidali believes submissions made to the Joint Committee on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 may not influence the proposed changes, questioning whether the Government has already decided what it intends to amend.
Making a submission at the Ba Market Bure, 28-year-old Levuidali referred to the Constitution Review Commission’s visit to Ba a few months ago and questioned whether public views would be taken into account in the amendment process.
Levuidali has questioned why amendments to the Constitution are being considered so close to the next general election, saying concerns about the Constitution could have been addressed earlier.
Insert: Levuidali - Laws that will guide this nation Oct 20
Levuidali raised concerns about provisions allowing Parliament’s term to be extended by up to 12 months if a State of Emergency is declared towards the end of its term.
He says constitutional provisions are important laws that will guide the country and should be carefully considered.
Levuidali also stressed the importance of recognising all Fijians, including those of Indian descent, for their contributions to the country and its economy.
He says Fiji should remain united in its diversity, guided by tolerance, goodwill and understanding.
He also appealed to legal professionals advising the Prime Minister to consider the interests of Fijians and future generations when assessing the proposed amendments.
Levuidali is urging members of the committee and those involved in the amendment process to consider the long-term implications of their decisions for the country.
While highlighting these issues, Levuidali also raised concerns that the committee arrived late at the venue and sat on different chairs from those provided for members of the public.
He says he greeted the public first to highlight the difference between public servants and “bosses”.
Meanwhile, consultations on the Bill are being held at the George Shiu Raj Hall in Rakiraki until midday and 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.
