Court opinion draws mixed reactions

The Supreme Court's opinion on the 2013 Constitution has drawn strong reactions from political and civic leaders, with a number welcoming it as a pathway to greater democratic participation.

The court ruled that constitutional amendments can proceed with the support of two-thirds of Parliament, followed by a majority vote in a national referendum.

Fiji human rights arm

Member of the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission (FHRADC), Alefina Vuki, said the ruling was expected and well-reasoned. She described it as "balanced and reasonable", noting it recognises the sovereignty of Parliament and the need for people's direct participation.

"While the 2013 Constitution is legally effective, it was imposed. By requiring a referendum, the Court has ensured the people's voice is directly included in the democratic process," Ms Vuki said.

She added that reducing the threshold from 75 per cent of MPs to two-thirds, combined with a referendum, makes the amendment process both democratic and stable.

Unity Fiji party

Unity Fiji party leader Savenaca Narube welcomed the shift, saying it lowers barriers for citizens to influence constitutional change.

"The court has moved from three-quarter to two-third in Parliament, and a simple majority for the ref-erendum. That's a step forward for democracy, making people's wishes easier to achieve," he said.

Mr Narube, however, stressed that his party would continue to study the judgment carefully and consider its options, including possible legal challenges to the 2013 Constitution.

Fiji Law Society

Fiji Law Society president Wylie Clarke called for measured analysis before drawing conclusions.

"We have to read it first and see what the Court understands and actually setup," Mr Clarke said.

He stressed the importance of examining the reasoning in detail.

Mr Clarke added that only after a thorough review could the full implications of the judgment be appreciated.