PM Rabuka looks beyond coalition in push for divisive constitutional bill

Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is courting independents and opposition members to secure passage of the Constitution Amendment Bill, as tension grows within the coalition government.

Speaking to media outside Parliament, Rabuka says none of the coalition partners have withdrawn or signalled withdrawal of their support.

He is warning that consequences may follow.

“If they write to say we would like to withdraw, then their members who are now in Cabinet may have to also withdraw. If, at the vote, they show their hand, then I will have to ask them to leave the Cabinet.”

Rabuka says he believes some original coalition partners have been told not to vote in favour of the bill and the government is widening its search for numbers.

“We are working on the 11 independent members who have come to join the Government, and also the opposition who have been around with us.”

The divisive Bill 32 of 2026, the Constitution Ammendment Bill. Photo/PMN News

The Bill requires a two-thirds majority vote to pass its third reading in Parliament

SODELPA Leader Aseri Radrodro has responded saying they remain a strong and productive member of the coalition government and intend to fulfil their responsibilities until the completion of their term.

The Party has stated they do not support the Constitution Amendment Bill in its current form as they want the 2013 Constitution to be completely removed not amended.

Last month, the SODELPA had issues a statement stating they want the 2013 Constitution thrown out. Photo/PMN News

Radrodro also drew a clear line between their membership of the coalition and their stance on Bill 32, saying they are two separate matters.

“Our position should therefore be understood within the context of our responsibility to the people we represent, rather than as a challenge to the stability or leadership of the Coalition Government.”

He says the party’s concerns are genuine and have been put to the Prime Minister.

“I believe that a healthy Coalition must allow room for constructive discussion, the expression of differing views and the consideration of positions held by its respective partners. The constitutional review process is too important to be reduced to questions of political allegiance or Cabinet membership.”

Coalition partners SODELPA and the National Federation Party hold several senior posts in the coalition government.

Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka is Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Radrodro is Minister for Education, and Ifereimi Vasu is Minister for iTaukei Affairs.

SODELPA MP's in the coalition government Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu, Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka. Photo/SODELPA

Gavoka has publicly opposed his party’s decision to reject the Bill, saying he was “devastated” and warning it could cause “irreparable damage” to SODELPA.

NFP’s Pio Tikoduadua is Minister for Defence and Veterans Affairs, and Sashi Kiran is Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection.

Meanwhile, Rabuka told the Fijian Parliament they have yet to receive any submission on the constitution amendments from Fijians overseas.

“The government recognises that our diaspora remains an integral part of our national community.

“Fiji’s diplomatic missions have been requested to strengthen engagement with diaspora communities by disseminating information on the Constitution Amendment Bill 2026, advising on the extended consultation period, and encouraging Fijians overseas to submit their views.”

Rabuka says the Parliamentary Special Committee’s public consultations have been live streamed, so overseas Fijians can follow the proceedings and hear the issues raised.

Watch Fiji's PM Sitiveni Rabuka's speech in Parliament below.

The Constitution Amendment Bill 2026 and information booklet are widely available through official Government platforms, including online and social media, so those overseas can get all the material they need including access to consultation.

Rabuka says with Parliament extending the Special Committee’s term and deferring its report, there is now more time for participation by the Fijian diaspora.

The deadline for submissions is 4pm on Saturday, 14 November 2026.