SODELPA proposes 'Fiji Islander' for all citizens in Constitution review

SODELPA has renewed calls to restore "Fiji Islander" as the common civic identity for all citizens, while reserving the term "Fijian" for indigenous iTaukei people.

Presenting the party's submission to the Constitution Review Commission, SODELPA leader Aseri Radrodro said Fiji must recognise both equal citizenship and the historical identity of indigenous Fijians.

Mr Radrodro said the issue of national identity was not only symbolic but also a constitutional matter affecting belonging, history, reconciliation and the legitimacy of the State.

"SODELPA submits that Fiji must build one civic family without erasing the historic name of the indigenous people," he said.

The party said all citizens should continue to enjoy equal rights, dignity and protection under the law while recognising indigenous Fijians as the first people of Fiji.

Under the proposal, all citizens would be recognised as Fijian Islanders, while the term Fijian would refer specifically to indigenous Fijians.

Mr Radrodro said the proposal was not intended to exclude any community.

"It allows every citizen to share one civic identity as Fijian Islanders, while restoring the historical rooted identity of indigenous Fijians," he said.

SODELPA also proposed that the Constitution recognise the contributions of all communities, including Rotumans, Indo-Fijians, Banabans, descendants of Solomon Islands and Vanuatu people, Europeans, Chinese and others who have made Fiji their home.

The party further proposed constitutional recognition of iTaukei, Fiji Hindi, Rotuman, Mandarin and Cantonese.

It said English should remain the working language of Government, while the other languages should be strengthened through education, Parliament, the courts and public services.

SODELPA also called for recognition of Fiji's Christian heritage while protecting freedom of religion and belief for all citizens.

Mr Radrodro said Fiji needed a Constitution that could unite the country without ignoring its history.