Fiji: New constitution almost certain to go to referendum on 9 December with general election in January or February
On 2 October, the Constitution Amendment Bill 2026 passed its second reading in Parliament with a two thirds majority vote. The bill now moves to a select committee to conduct public consultation and report back to Parliament around 1 November for the bill’s final vote. The final vote must also secure a two thirds majority before proceeding to a referendum. A referendum date has been set for 9 December with results expected by 14 December. Key changes in the new constitution include establishing a 23 member senate composed of members of the Great Council of Chiefs and other appointees recommended by the Prime Minister, Opposition Leader and Rotuma Island Council. Immunity will also be retained for state officials covering conduct between 5 December 2006 and the first sitting of the new parliament - this provision was kept by the Government despite the review commission recommending its exclusion. Land and customary law rights will also be expanded for iTaukei and Rotuman communities with a view to greater ownership of economic development.
Assessment: The coalition government currently has sufficient numbers to win a two-thirds majority vote during the final reading. The government has previously stated it aims for the new Constitution to come into force by 24 December. Despite some civil society groups expressing concern that the government’s focus on the new constitution threatens a delay to the general election due by 6 February 2027, elections are likely to occur after a short period of time for parliament to finalise the constitution’s implementation assuming a successful referendum vote. Therefore the general election is likely to take place in January or February 2027.
Sources: Mollyn Nakabea, “Constitutional Amendment Bill moves forward,” FBC, 30 September 2026; Litia Cava, “PM defends immunity clause,” FBC, 2 October 2026; Litia Cava, “Constitution debate intensifies,” FBC, 2 October 2026; Litia Cava, “Public gets say on Constitution Bill,” FBC, 2 October 2026; Apenisa Waqairadovu, “Fijians to vote on Constitution on December 9,” FBC, 5 October 2026.
