CCF Documentary Critiques Recent Constitution Consultations
This year’s International Human Rights Day on Monday December 10th will be celebrated through the launch of the Citizens’ Constitutional Forum’s documentary titled “Our Voice, Our Future, Our Constitution”.
This year’s international theme for Human Rights day is “My Voice Counts” with the spotlight on the rights of all people — women, youth, minority groups, sexual minorities, persons with disabilities, indigenous people, the poor and marginalized — to make their voices heard in public life and be included in political decision-making.
“The theme is very appropriate and relevant to Fiji’s current context, following the national consultations on drafting the next constitution, where ordinary citizens were able to exercise their fundamental right as articulated in Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which states “Everyone has the right to take part in the government and free and fair elections,” says CCF CEO Rev. Akuila Yabaki.
“The 25 minute production seeks to capture the voice of the people in the constitution making process. Views that ask the burning questions of legitimacy, non-negotiables, immunity, land, human rights and the remaining phases leading to the elections,” says Rev Yabaki.
Rev Yabaki says one vital issue which we hope to highlight through the production is the importance of participation. People from all walks of life came forward to have their voices heard. More importantly, those who strongly questioned the legitimacy of the process, the appointments and the timeline, knew the importance of participating in the process and made all effort to do so.
“We also hope that this sets the platform and generates more discussion on the next phase of the process which will be the Constituent Assembly before Fiji has a new Constitution.”
The premier will be held at Village Six Cinema’s on Monday December 10th, 2012 from 6:30pm and will be aired on MaiTV on Tuesday December 11that 7pm, Sunday December 16th at 1:30pm and on Thursday December 20th at 1:30pm.