Fiji leaders should serve no more than two terms, Constitution review told

Fiji’s political leaders should serve no more than two terms to prevent the concentration of power and ensure regular leadership renewal, the Constitution Review Commission (CRC) was told during public consultations in Nagado, Nadi on Friday.

Mata ni tikina (district representative) Vaturu, Ilaitia Nasaku said term limits would create opportunities for new leaders to emerge, strengthen democratic accountability and prevent individuals from holding political office for prolonged periods.

“No leader should remain in power long enough to dominate the country’s political landscape, fresh leadership would bring new ideas and better reflect the changing needs of the people,” Mr Nasaku said.

His proposal was among 10 submissions presented to the CRC commission forming a broader call for significant constitutional, electoral and governance reforms.

Mr Nasaku urged the commission to consider a constitutional framework that gives greater recognition to traditional structures, indigenous rights and community representation.

Land and resource ownership were also key issues in his submission.

He recommended increasing royalties paid to landowners and giving customary landowners greater authority over natural resources linked to their land.

“Traditional fishing grounds to be returned to the customary owners,” he said.

“The term Fijian be reserved exclusively for the indigenous iTaukei people.

“And that village by-laws receive formal legal recognition before they are enforced.

Other recommendations included the reintroduction of corporal punishment in schools and a review of certain provisions contained in the Bill of Rights.

With concerns over power, representation and indigenous rights forming the core of his submission, Mr Nasaku argued that constitutional reform should not only change laws but also place clear limits on those entrusted to govern the nation.