Submission urges ban on coup perpetrators from holding political office

The Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) has called for sweeping constitutional reforms in Fiji, including a ban on coup perpetrators from holding political office, in a bold submission to the Constitutional Review Committee yesterday.

The FCOSS argued that individuals involved in unconstitutional take-overs should not be allowed to benefit from their actions particularly by contesting election unless they formally renounce any legal immunity tied to those events.

The proposal forms part of a broader push to dismantle constitutional immunity provisions that have long shielded actors involved in coups.

Accountability

Presenting the submission on Friday, representative Josaia Tokoni stressed that accountability was essential to safeguard democracy and prevent future abuses of power.

They recommended removing entrenched immunity clauses and establishing mechanisms for justice, redress, and national reconciliation.

The Council warned that retaining immunity without accountability risks undermining the rule of law.

“Mechanisms for genuine justice must be established,” the submission stated, pointing to Fiji’s history of political instability.

In addition to targeting immunity provisions, the group called for clearer constitutional language around referendums and amendments, particularly in reflecting Supreme Court interpretations within the legal framework.

The recommendations come as Fiji undertakes a broader review of its constitutional framework, with civil society organizations playing a key role in shaping proposals for reform.