Chiefs Clarify: Amend, Not Remove Constitution

Fiji’s political waters were stirred this week after Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) chairman Ratu Viliame Seruvakula made a bold call for constitutional reform, sparking mixed reactions across the country.

Ratu Viliame clarified that the chiefs are not demanding an immediate repeal of the 2013 Constitution, but rather the ability to amend it something he says is virtually impossible under the current framework.

This comes after concerns have emerged following a report that misrepresented comments allegedly made by Ratu Viliame regarding the 2013 Constitution.

The radio station reportedly announced that Ratu Viliame had called for the “total removal” of the 2013 Constitution—a claim that has since been disputed by observers and stakeholders who argue the statement was taken out of context or entirely fabricated.

Listeners quickly voiced concern over the report’s inaccuracy, with several prominent figures and members of the public noting that the president had not made such a definitive or politically sensitive declaration.

“At the moment, you can’t make amendments to this Constitution,” Ratu Viliame said.

“We want that door opened so we can look inside and make changes to the ones we need to change.”

He stopped short of naming specific sections for amendment, but stressed the need to remove the 75 per cent parliamentary and public approval thresholds that currently block any constitutional change.

Concerns 

The comments have raised concerns, particularly among Indo-Fijians, about the broader implications of such changes.

Vineel Nand of Nadi voiced skepticism.

“The Constitution cannot be changed overnight. We need thorough public consultation and a two-thirds majority in Parliament. I’m not for changing the Constitution right now, especially given the State of Fiji.”

Some critics have also questioned the GCC’s lack of clarity, accusing the council of fuelling uncertainty.

Zoheb Ali of Labasa said it hasn’t been one week and already the traditional leaders made decision which is already been looked at by the Government.

“They should first make constitution for their own people to help reduce crime, drug issue faced by students, HIV and domestic violence,” Mr Ali said.

“Election is predicted to be next year and I think we should not waste time on carrying out discussion on changing the 2013 Constitution.”

Ratu Viliame responded cautiously, saying, “We want to see how this goes... We’re not saying what’s going to happen after that.”

He acknowledged that any overhaul would still rely on parts of the current Constitution due to existing institutional frameworks, adding that “starting from scratch just doesn’t work that way.”

Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj