Fiji's SODELPA opposes Constitution Amendment Bill 2026

The Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) has rejected support for the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026, known as Bill 32, in its current form. Following a Special Annual General Meeting, 221 of 296 members voted in favor of a motion opposing the Bill’s third reading. SODELPA argues the party's position is rooted in protecting indigenous rights and ensuring genuine constitutional reform rather than rushing amendments.

The party expressed concerns regarding provisions in the Bill related to emergency powers and the potential extension of Parliament’s term, suggesting these could be used to delay electoral accountability. SODELPA also criticized the retention of immunity provisions and urged the government to prioritize national issues such as the cost of living, drug-related crime, and rising HIV cases.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka warned that failing to secure the necessary two-thirds majority for the Bill could lead to the dissolution of the Coalition Government, forcing political parties to contest the next general election independently. Meanwhile, former attorney-general Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has called for the process to be halted to allow for more public scrutiny and detailed examination of the complex provisions.