The Constitution Commission believes that the promulgation of the two decrees relating to the drafting of the new constitution will mean that the essential principles of democracy are ignored and the independence of the Assembly negated.

Maca Lutunauga reports.

“Commission chair Yash Ghai made the comment at a press conference today.”

“Yash Ghai says in light of the fact that members of the present government may wish to compete in the coming elections, it is important that they should not control the process that will set out the rules for elections."

“He says this will undermine the credibility of elections.”

“On the immunity decree announced yesterday, Yash Ghai says it is most unusual and they believe it is undesirable.”

“The Commission is concerned that the people of Fiji have not been consulted in any way.”

“They believe that if immunity is part of the process, it could be discussed through submissions to the Commission and debated in the Constituent Assembly.”

“Yash Ghai adds a solution could be reached that citizens believe would promote the transition to democracy and contribute to a sustained democracy as envisaged in the two Decrees.”

“Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum is expected to respond to this statement soon.”