Debate over the National Referendum Bill commenced in Parliament today, with the Standing Committee on Justice and Law facilitating discussions. On the opening day, three significant submissions were presented by representatives from the Fiji Labour Party (FLP), the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM), and Dialogue Fiji.
The Fiji Labour Party articulated strong reservations about certain provisions of the National Referendum Bill, asserting that these elements could undermine fundamental freedoms and citizens’ democratic right to fully engage in referendum discussions. Dr. Sunil Kumar, a board member of the FLP, called for the removal of restrictive clauses and advocated for a clearly defined campaign period. He insisted that public participation in the referendum process is vital, recommending that strict regulations be implemented to limit government spending and prevent the misuse of state resources to promote biased narratives.
Nilesh Lal, the Director of Dialogue Fiji, aligned with these viewpoints, urging amendments to clauses 22, 23, and 27 of the Bill, claiming their current phrasing fails to uphold democratic principles. Lal proposed the creation of an independent body dedicated to drafting the referendum questions, ensuring an inclusive process that accurately reflects the public’s voice.
The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement raised alarms about potential dangers within the proposed draft, particularly its capacity to criminalize everyday advocacy and hinder public discourse. Shayal Nand, the Team Leader of FWRM’s Gender and Transitional Justice Program, underscored the need for revisions to sections 22 and 23, which she believes could discourage public involvement in democratic processes and silence marginalized groups, including women and youth.
Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure, Chairman of the Standing Committee on Justice and Law, acknowledged the uncertainty regarding the tabling of the Bill in the April parliamentary session. He emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough and transparent review process.
The submission window will remain open for two additional days, with the committee planning to visit various regions and rural communities to collect further insights. This effort aims to enrich the democratic discourse surrounding this significant legislation, highlighting the government’s commitment to inclusivity and transparency in the legislative process.