$1m set aside for constitutional review commission to carry out its work

Seven members appointed to Fiji’s Constitutional Review Commission were sworn in yesterday as Government confirmed $1 million has been allocated to support the body’s work.

President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu commissioned the members during a ceremony at State House, marking the start of a constitutional review process expected to run through to August 31, 2026.

The commission will be chaired by senior lawyer Sevuloni Valenitabua. Other members are Labasa lawyer Ami Kohli, Fiji National University Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, University of the South Pacific economist Dr Neelesh Gounder, public policy specialist Merewalesi Nailatikau, medical practitioner Dr John Fatiaki and architect Conway Beg.

The commission has been tasked with reviewing Fiji’s Constitution and making recommendations to strengthen the country’s democracy and governance.

It will consult the public, receive submissions and analyse concerns before presenting its findings and recommendations.

Cabinet has allocated $1 million to support the commission’s work, including the establishment of a secretariat and engagement of constitutional law experts.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Speaker of Parliament Filimone Jitoko, Chief Justice Salesi Temo, Cabinet ministers and family members of the commissioners attended the ceremony.

Mr Valenitabua is a senior barrister and solicitor admitted to practise in Fiji, Solomon Islands, Nauru and the Australian state of New South Wales, with nearly three decades of experience in criminal and civil litigation.

Mr Kohli is principal of Kohli & Singh in Labasa and has more than 40 years’ experience in legal practice and governance. He previously served on Fiji’s Electoral Commission.

Professor Nabobo-Baba is an education and development specialist with more than 35 years’ academic experience and currently serves as Vice-Chancellor of Fiji National University.

Dr Gounder is a senior lecturer in economics at the University of the South Pacific and previously served as Chief Policy Adviser to the Fiji Government.

Ms Nailatikau has more than 15 years’ experience in public policy, stakeholder engagement and strategic communications across the Pacific.

Dr Fatiaki is a Suva-based medical practitioner and Managing Director of Epworth Clinic. He has also served as a senator and as Special Adviser for Rotuman Affairs.

Mr Beg is principal of Conway Architects and a former chairman of the Fiji Rugby Union.

The commission’s final report will be submitted to the President before it is presented to Cabinet and later tabled in Parliament.