Villagers urge Constitution review before next election

Review the Constitution before asking people to vote again.

That was the strong message from villagers in Saqani during the Constitutional Review Commission consultations yesterday, as concerns continue to grow over public understanding and acceptance of the 2013 Constitution.

Villager Eroni Daugunu said Fiji must first address issues surrounding the Constitution before focusing on future elections.

Speaking during consultations at the Saqani Village Hall, Mr Daugunu said ordinary citizens wanted greater involvement in shaping the nation’s laws.

“The Constitution is the foundation of the country and people must fully understand it before they are called to the polls again,” he said.

“If there are issues that people are unhappy about, then those concerns should be addressed first.”

Mr Daugunu said many villagers believed rural communities needed a stronger voice in national discussions, particularly on matters affecting future generations.

“Too many decisions are made without people in the villages being properly consulted,” he said.

“This review gives ordinary Fijians the opportunity to speak openly about what they want changed.”

Community members attending the consultations also raised concerns about representation, transparency and public awareness of constitutional rights.

Some participants called for more civic education programmes to help people better understand the Constitution and how it affects their daily lives.

Mr Daugunu also called for more awareness programmes in villages and remote communities.

“Many people still do not fully understand what is inside the Constitution,” he said.

“The Government must bring information directly to the people instead of expecting people to travel and search for answers themselves.”

The Constitutional Review Commission is continuing nationwide consultations and is expected to compile recommendations after gathering submissions from communities around Fiji.