Opposition MP, Mosese Bulitavu has suggested the removal of sedition as a charge.

Bulitavu who was earlier acquitted by the Suva High court of sedition charges says laws and state institutions should not be used to oppose Fijians particularly those who disagree with the government.

He adds the right and freedom of expression of Fijians must be preserved and not opposed.

“We do not subscribe to the thought that you charge people with sedition just because they disagree with your actions and utterance – it’s free speech. It is a hallmark of functioning democracy. Be a unifying force and not a divisive force.”

Bulitavu says with the removal, concerns of hate speech spiraling out of control would not surface because the constitution still covers it.

He adds countries like New Zealand, England and Wales have removed sedition charges from its law and suggests Fiji should follow suit.

Quoting the President from his opening remarks of Parliament, Bulivatu says a healthy debate is discussion within and outside parliament, through the media and social media which should be embraced.

Meanwhile, Bulivatu and businessman Jagath Karunaratne who are charged with sedition will appear in court tomorrow following the re-trial order by the High court.