Fiji Labour Party challenges constitution review process legitimacy

The Fiji Labour Party (FLP) has raised concerns about the legitimacy of the ongoing Constitutional Review Commission process, asserting that any review of Fiji's constitution requires parliamentary backing and a legislative framework.

In its submission to the Commission, the FLP stated that the review was initiated without prior parliamentary debate, endorsement, or a legal structure, which it believes undermines the democratic foundation of the process. FLP Leader Mahendra Chaudhry emphasized that while public consultation is vital, constitutional reform must ultimately be channeled through Parliament, the body representing the people.

“

The party submits with the utmost respect that the Constitutional Review Commission (CRC), as currently established and operating, lacks the necessary democratic legitimacy and parliamentary mandate required under the 2013 Constitution of the Republic of Fiji.

Chaudhry noted that the Commission, as currently constituted, lacks the necessary democratic legitimacy and parliamentary mandate under Fiji's 2013 Constitution. He warned that an executive-led review without parliamentary endorsement risks eroding public confidence in the integrity and ownership of any resulting reforms.

“

This deficiency is not merely technical. It touches the foundational principle that the Constitution, as the supreme law, derives its authority from the people through their elected representatives in Parliament.

The party's submission also addresses several key issues, including national identity, land reform, electoral changes, institutional oversight, citizenship rights, and judicial reform. Regarding citizenship, the FLP supports the principle of all citizens being identified as Fijians and opposes ethnic categorizations or different classes of citizenship, advocating for equal rights and recognition for all communities. On land matters, the party calls for enhanced security for agricultural tenants and greater transparency in managing iTaukei land leases, recommending a minimum 50-year lease period for agricultural purposes and an independent lease review mechanism.

Furthermore, the FLP proposes a mixed-member proportional representation system for electoral reform, combining constituency-based representation with proportional party-list seats. The party argues the current electoral system lacks direct accountability. It also advocates for stronger parliamentary oversight of public borrowing and appointments to key independent institutions, including the judiciary, police, military, Electoral Commission, and audit institutions. The submission includes recommendations to increase women's participation.

“

An executive-initiated review process, without prior parliamentary endorsement, risks undermining public confidence in the integrity and ownership of any eventual reforms.