Fiji constitutional immunity reform debate

The Rabuka administration is undergoing a constitutional reform process that may result in a new constitution for Fiji. This process has sparked debate regarding immunity clauses for individuals involved in past coups.

Ratu Tevita Mara, the paramount chief of Fiji's Lau province, has warned that discussions on immunity must address underlying social and economic issues. He argued that lasting reconciliation requires addressing economic disparity, the drug crisis, and the HIV crisis within iTaukei communities, noting that many iTaukei families remain economically marginalized.

In opposition to granting immunity, Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, urged Parliament to reject proposed amendments. Kalouniwai argued that the military must be accountable to the people and described a systemic “architecture of rebellion” that has historically used constitutional immunity to legitimize illegal actions. He stated that removing immunity provisions would restore ordinary law and ensure soldiers cannot be used against the citizenry.