Human Rights Commissioner Chantelle Khan has called on the Fijian government to embrace a multi-party strategy in updating outdated colonial laws, particularly concerning the Mining Act. Her statement comes after Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka acknowledged the complexities involved in amending these long-standing regulations at a Fiji Media Association town hall in Tavua last month.
Khan emphasized the need for urgent review and modernization of these archaic laws, insisting that the government should refrain from delaying reforms. “They’re very archaic laws. They need to be changed. And I think it’s time for the Government to stop saying it’s going to take a long time. Get on with it,” she urged. She highlighted the government’s responsibility to align its legal framework with international human rights standards.
Advocating for bipartisan collaboration, Khan noted that involving multiple political parties in the reform process could ensure continuity in governance, irrespective of which party holds power in the future. “When the next Government gets into power, they should own the process and want to continue instead of shelving it,” she remarked, suggesting that a collaborative approach would foster shared commitment towards legislative changes.
Civil society organizations have echoed Khan’s call, emphasizing the critical need to prioritize human rights, along with pressing social issues such as unemployment and healthcare, amid the ongoing political conversation. The push for reform of the Mining Act, along with similar outdated laws, reflects a broad national call for enhanced accountability and community engagement in governance.
As Fiji embarks on these necessary reforms, the discussions among political leaders and civil society signal a hopeful shift towards inclusive governance. There is a shared optimism that collective endeavors can bridge legislative gaps, empowering local communities and amplifying their voices. The ongoing dialogues hold the potential to initiate meaningful changes that not only serve the mining sector but also contribute to a fairer and more equitable society for all Fijians.