Government to operate under 2013 Constitution

If the government's attempt to amend the 2013 Constitution fails, it will continue to operate under the existing legal framework. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka told the media yesterday that he rejected criticisms that the government's actions were too hasty.

Prime Minister Rabuka acknowledged that the government lacks the parliamentary majority needed to pass the amendment. He stated that constitutional reform was a key component of the People's Alliance election manifesto. Prime Minister Rabuka clarified that amending the 2013 Constitution was not a rushed decision but an important part of the party platform that had to be implemented, although it ultimately failed.

The government had worked to secure the support of opposition members, but the bill was defeated in its second reading. Prime Minister Rabuka stated that the government had engaged in negotiations, including private meetings and lobbying, to gain bipartisan support for the amendment. He mentioned receiving a request from the Leader of the Opposition to handle constitutional matters bilaterally and had already begun lobbying for support, even holding meetings and lunches, but ultimately failed to gain their support.

When asked if the government would submit the matter to the Supreme Court, Prime Minister Rabuka said it was not a priority. "Not necessarily, there will be no immediate action. We need to consider the various options and the viability of those options."

He stated that if all avenues for amending the Constitution have been exhausted, the government will move forward under the existing legal framework. The government will assess all feasible options and continue to govern under the existing legal framework.