Ro Teimumu urges caution over referendum numbers

Gone Marama Bale na Roko Tui Dreketi Ro Teimumu Kepa has urged the Government not to assume it has the numbers to advance the constitutional referendum process, saying it should "pray" before counting on parliamentary support.

Speaking to the media yesterday at the Rewa Provincial Council meeting, Ro Teimumu said Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Mosese Bulitavu appeared confident the Government would secure the required support in Parliament, but cautioned against taking success for granted.

"He seems certain they will get the numbers, but in everything we just have to tell them to pray about it," she said.

"The last time they were counting their chickens before they hatched. They thought it would be a walk-through and a walk-over, but something happened. We hope this time they will all come through, and I think they just have to pray so they get the numbers."

Ro Teimumu was referring to the Government's bid to amend the Constitution, which must first secure parliamentary approval before proceeding to a national referendum.

She said once the parliamentary process was complete, the decision would rest with the people.

"Once that comes through Parliament, it comes to us, the people."

Ro Teimumu acknowledged that holding a nationwide referendum would be a significant undertaking, particularly in ensuring registered voters in Fiji and overseas had the opportunity to participate.

"What we are asking people to do is to make sure that when that day comes, they all come and vote in the referendum.

"Many of us want changes to the Constitution, but that can only come about through the parliamentary process and also the referendum by the people."

She also called on Fijians to keep the process in their prayers, saying constitutional reform required both parliamentary approval and the support of the people.