Fiji Parliament extends review of Constitution Amendment Bill

Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has moved to extend the deadline for the Special Committee reviewing the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026. The decision follows pressure from political parties and the public regarding a timeline deemed too compressed, which critics argued could undermine confidence in the reform process.

Opposition leaders, including National Federation Party leader Professor Biman Prasad, have expressed concerns over the rushed nature of the review. Prasad suggested that while the 2013 Constitution should be reviewed, the process should continue after the next general election to ensure wider consultation and political consensus.

During parliamentary proceedings, Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, warned that the bill could make constitutional immunity permanent under section 207 if passed at its third reading. He urged Parliament to use this opportunity to break the cycle of coups and impunity, stating the military does not seek legal protection from accountability for past wrongdoing.

While some groups, such as the Vanua Ko Lau, have expressed support for the amendments to protect indigenous land and resources, the Prime Minister noted that the upcoming third-reading vote will determine if the bill proceeds to a national referendum or is discontinued.