Press Release: Constitution Day 2021
Today marks Constitution Day, a public holiday that began in 2016 to commemorate the adoption of the 2013 Fijian Constitution.
A Constitution is considered to be the supreme law of any nation. This supreme law should reflect the values and principles that governs a nation. It should include the promotion and protection of human rights and freedoms which should be realized through implementation and action on the ground.
The governing systems should be inclusive of the voices of the people and their needs.
The Citizens’ Constitutional Forum (CCF) Chief Executive Officer Louchrisha Hussain says “We hope that the people of Fiji will take this moment to reflect on their constitution and why it is important for them to thoroughly understand everything it entails. Everyone should be able to understand the supreme law of the land. We urge our communities to reach out to institutions which are mandated to provide legal assistance and interpret laws.”
“At times accessibility and availability of information on the constitution or any laws for that matter are issues that our communities face. It is important that everyone understands the Bill of Rights in the 2013 Constitution and how it affects them as individuals.”
CCF applies democratic processes in its work with communities and external stakeholders. We consider ground work to be vital as it engages communities and encourages to participate in decision making spaces.
“It is our duty as citizens to always uphold the rule of law which extends to institutions, and entities regardless of events such as the current pandemic the world faces” said Ms Hussain.
The CCF reminds families to enjoy the day safely in the comforts of their bubbles and to adhere to COVID-19 safety protocols.
ENDS