Government Does Not Care About People's Views, Unity Fiji Leader Savenaca Narube Says

Unity Fiji Party leader Savenaca Narube has accused the coalition Government of sidelining public opinion in its review of Fiji’s electoral laws.

In a statement, Narube claimed the Government was rushing the review process, giving the people very little time to submit their views before the deadline next week.

“The reforms of the electoral laws is an important process. But the people have been given very little time to submit their opinions on these important laws,” Narube said. “The advertisement will tick the box that they have called for submission. But they have no interest in receiving any views from the people. Doesn’t this sound familiar? Yes, this is the tactic of the FijiFirst Government.”

He added that the coalition Government was beginning to mirror the actions of the previous administration.

Narube also questioned the legality of reviewing the electoral system without first amending the Constitution.

“The electoral system is clearly protected in the Constitution. Therefore, should not the constitution be amended first? The Government’s statement implied that the review would change the electoral system. This is incorrect and clearly a political ploy.”

The Unity Fiji leader further accused the Government of prioritizing political interests over national interest, saying their actions continue the legacy of FijiFirst.

“We have seen a string of important legal decisions by this Government that defy common sense. Their constitution amendment motion was defeated because of poor planning,” he added, referring to the Government’s recent failed attempt to amend the 2013 Constitution.

Narube concluded by raising questions about the competence of the Government’s legal team and leadership, asking whether they “know what they are doing” or “where they are going.”