Waiqori villagers call for removal of immunity clause in 2013 Constitution

Waiqori villagers of Oneata in Lau Province have called for the removal of the immunity clause in the 2013 Constitution.

Their submissions were made as nationwide consultations on constitutional review continue in the province.

The consultation is being led by Constitutional Review Commission (CRC) chair Sevuloni Valenitabua, who is overseeing efforts to gather public submissions on the country’s supreme law.

School teacher Kurusiga Tuivanua submitted: “Remove the immunity clause. No coup leader should ever run the country; they should be held to account.”

The statement reflects growing unease among some citizens about protections granted under the 2013 Constitution.

At the centre of this concern is Section 157, which states that immunity “shall not be reviewed, amended, or repealed by any court, tribunal or other adjudicating body.”

Critics argue such provisions entrench legal protection and limit avenues for accountability.

Mr Tuivanua emerged as a prominent voice during the consultation, warning of the wider impact on public service.

“It creates a culture of fear,” he said. “Civil servants may feel they cannot question authority when such protections exist at the highest level.”

He added that the issue was not only about past events, but also about the precedent it sets for future governance.

The submission highlights ongoing tensions between stability and accountability within Fiji’s constitutional framework.

While supporters of the immunity clause argue it ensures political continuity, critics maintain it undermines transparency and the rule of law.

As consultations continue across the province, Mr Valenitabua said submissions received from communities such as Waiqori will be taken to the next phase of the constitutional review process.