The processes in relation to the Constitution Amendment Bill 2026 will continue as the Suva High Court has dismissed independent MP Ketan Lal’s application for interim orders to halt the progress of the Bill this afternoon.
Lal had sought declarations that the progression of the Bill is in contravention of the Constitution.
Until the substantive issues are determined by the Court, he sought an interim injunction restraining the Speaker of Parliament from commencing the process for a referendum under section 160(3) of the Constitution.
Lal filed an originating summons and supporting affidavit on 9th October.
In his judgement, Justice Dane Tuiqereqere said Lal does not seek to restrain Parliament from conducting the third reading.
He said Lal rather sought an interim injunction restraining the Speaker, in the event that Amendment Bill is passed following the third reading, from making any notification to the President under section 160(3) of the Constitution.
Justice Tuiqereqere said he is unable to accept Lal’s argument that any changes made following a referendum cannot, under any circumstances, be reversed.
He said in the event it can be established that the lawful process was contravened when enacting changes to the Constitution, in his view, the court may intervene.
While speaking to the media outside court, Lal says he respects the court’s decision and will now consult his counsel.
