CRC submission questions court independence

Concerns about judicial independence, delays in high-profile court cases and public confidence in Fiji's justice system were raised before the Constitution Review Commission (CRC) during consultations in Lautoka today.

Making a submission at Namoli Village, Nadi, Joji Nava called for stronger constitutional protections to ensure the judiciary remains free from political influence.

Mr Nava claimed that remnants of the previous administration continued to affect public perceptions of the justice system and raised questions about the independence of the courts.

He said his concerns stemmed partly from the appointment of judges and what he described as delays in decisions involving high-profile cases.

Mr Nava referred to the case involving former senior Government officials, noting that the matter was still before the courts.

He also questioned instances where individuals initially charged in cases later became State prosecution witnesses.

"Such situations have created confusion and led to perceptions of inconsistency in the justice system," Nava said.

He told the commission that these issues had contributed to concerns among some members of the public about the judiciary's independence.

Nava urged the commission to review constitutional provisions relating to the judiciary and include stronger safeguards in any future constitutional amendments.

"We need to ensure judges and courts remain free from political interference," he said.

In a separate submission, Mr Nava also called for a review of constitutional provisions relating to iTaukei land and mineral ownership.

He argued that while the 1874 Deed of Cession protected iTaukei land from alienation, the 2013 Constitution provides that minerals found beneath the land belong to the State.

Mr Nava said the provisions should be reviewed to ensure greater consistency between the Constitution and the principles contained in the Deed of Cession.

He urged the commission to examine the relevant sections of the Constitution and consider amendments that would better protect landowners' rights.