Parliament is not a nightclub, villager tells CRC consultation

“Parliamentarians should maintain good conduct in Parliament, it’s not a nightclub."

A Taveuni villager has called for higher standards of conduct in Parliament, saying MPs must show respect and professionalism in the nation’s highest democratic institution.

Mere Vueti made the remark while speaking at a Constitution Review Commission (CRC) public consultation today at Somosomo Village in Taveuni.

Ms Vueti said Parliament is a place for serious national decision-making and must be treated with dignity, expressing concern over what she described as inappropriate conduct by some MPs.

She warned that such behaviour risks undermining public confidence in the institution, stressing that leaders must reflect the respect they owe to the nation.

“Our leaders are there to represent the people, and their behaviour should reflect the respect they have for the nation,” she said.

She also highlighted the importance of the consultation process, describing it as a valuable platform for ordinary citizens to voice their expectations on leadership and governance.

Ms Vueti urged parliamentarians to set a positive example for younger generations, and to ensure debates are conducted in a respectful and professional manner.

The commission continues its nationwide consultations, gathering public views as part of ongoing efforts to review and potentially reform Fiji’s constitutional framework.