The National Federation Party is of the firm view that the process of the review of the Constitution must not be rushed.

While making their submisisons before the Constitution Review Committee, Party Leader and Government MP, Prof Biman Prasad says if it is rushed, it will be labeled a façade.

He says the enactment of the past four constitutions either through an agreed democratic process or enforced through a decree and timeline for elections after enforcement of consequential legislation are proof of why it is simply impossible.

Prof Prasad says in the current context, elections must be held at the latest by February 6th, 2027, and there is no way it can be held under new provisions and a new order.

He adds that it is vital that the Commission request the President as the appointing authority and who issued the Terms of Reference, for more time instead of the current unrealistic timeline.

Prasad says there are precedents because consequential legislation must be enacted to give effect to provisions of a constitution.

He says realistically, there is no way whatsoever that the next general elections can be held under the provisions of a new constitution.

NFP firmly believes that the Commission should take into account submissions, and incorporate desirable provisions contained both in the 1997 and 2013 Constitutions into a totally new Constitution.

Prasad adds that the Commission should present both a draft Constitution and a review report to the President and this involves intricate work and requires expertise which the Commission must source and be provided with.

He adds that fact that the Commission is required to recommend changes to the 2013 Constitution does not prevent it in any way from drafting a new constitution altogether.

The Part Leader shars that incorporating changes in the 2013 Constitution or repealing it is the responsibility of parliament.

He says the 1997 Constitution (Amendment) Act resulted in the repeal of the 1990 Constitution which had provisions for review after 7 years, therefore, it does not mean that review prevents the formulation of a totally new legislation or constitution and repeal of existing legislation.