Human Rights Commissioner Chantelle Khan has urged the Fijian government to adopt a multi-party approach in reforming outdated colonial laws, particularly those related to the Mining Act. Her appeal follows Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s remarks at a Fiji Media Association town hall event in Tavua last month, where he acknowledged the complexities involved in amending these long-established laws that date back to Fiji’s colonial history.
Khan expressed her belief that, while the process may be challenging, it is imperative for the government to actively engage in reviewing and modernizing these laws. “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 stated. Khan emphasized that the government, as duty-bearers, has the responsibility to ensure that the legal framework aligns with international human rights standards.
In advocating for a multi-party collaboration, Khan pointed out that this approach would allow the current government and future administrations to continue working toward reform without political disruption. “When the next Government gets into power, they should own the process and want to continue instead of shelving it,” she added. This collaborative efforts aim to include diverse political parties in discussions surrounding these legislative changes, thus fostering a shared commitment to enhance governance.
Echoing Khan’s sentiments, civil society organizations have previously emphasized the importance of prioritizing human rights and social issues, such as unemployment and healthcare, amid ongoing political discourse. The call for reform surrounding the Mining Act and similar outdated legislation underlines a national push for greater accountability and community engagement in decision-making processes.
As Fiji navigates these necessary reforms, the dialogue among political leaders and civil society reflects a hopeful recognition of the need for inclusive governance. There is optimism that through collective efforts, the country can address legislative gaps while empowering local communities and ensuring that their voices are heard. The ongoing discussions have the potential to lead to significant changes that will not only benefit the mining sector but also promote a fairer and more just society for all Fijians.