The Constitution Review Commission (CRC) has noted an increase in public enquiries requesting access to its Terms of Reference (TOR).
In response to this interest, the Commission wishes to outline its Terms of Reference to guide the public on the scope of its work and areas open for discussion.
The Terms of Reference include engaging the people of the Republic of Fiji in meaningful consultations on the Constitution, as well as seeking input and evaluating key aspects of the Constitution to ensure its provisions reflect the values, needs and aspirations of all Fijians.
The Commission will also prepare a report on its findings on the effectiveness, relevance and implementation of the Constitution’s provisions, including their impact on governance, rights and accountability. It will ensure that the perspectives of diverse communities, including marginalised groups, are considered throughout the process.
In carrying out its work, the Commission will uphold the protection and guarantees of fundamental rights and freedoms, while recognising group rights in line with international laws and conventions on human rights, including political and economic rights. It will also promote good governance and maintain the rule of law, including safeguarding the independence of constitutional offices.
The review will further consider the most appropriate and acceptable system of government for Fiji, including the composition of and representational arrangements in Parliament, as well as the voting method to be adopted for electing representatives.
The Commission is also tasked with safeguarding the independence and effectiveness of the judiciary and state service arrangements, and protecting and guaranteeing, under the Constitution, the rights, interests and concerns of indigenous iTaukei and Rotuman people, while ensuring that the rights of all other communities and groups are fully respected.
It will protect, guarantee and secure land, fishing rights and resources of indigenous iTaukei and Rotuman people, and ensure that registered owners of native land and customary fishing rights receive an equitable share of income derived from the use of resources beneath and above the surface of their land, including the seabed and rivers.
The Terms of Reference also include recognising the role of the Great Council of Chiefs in the national affairs of the State under the Constitution, and facilitating public discussions, workshops and written submissions on all aspects outlined above to ensure comprehensive engagement.
The chairman of the Constitution Review Commission, Mr Sevuloni Valenitabua, said the strong public interest in the Terms of Reference is encouraging.
He said the Terms of Reference set the foundation for an open and inclusive process and designed to ensure that every Fijian has the opportunity to be heard and to contribute meaningfully to the future of our Constitution.
“We want to assure everyone that this will be an open and inclusive process. We encourage individuals, communities and organisations to take the time to understand the Terms of Reference, have meaningful discussions, and make their submissions.”
The CRC encourages all members of the public, civil society organisations and community groups to actively participate in the consultation process.
Further information on consultation schedules and submission guidelines will be shared in due course.