The language used in Fiji’s Constitution must respect the dignity and rights of people with disabilities, the Pacific Disability Forum has submitted during public consultations on the proposed Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 in Navua.

Pacific Disability Forum Chief Executive Officer Sainimili Tawake raised concerns about the use of the term “unsound mind” in the Constitution, arguing that such wording does not reflect a rights-based approach to disability.

Her submission calls attention to how constitutional language can affect the way people with disabilities are treated and recognised under the law.

She wants the review to consider wording that respects their dignity and recognises them as individuals with rights, rather than defining them through derogatory or outdated terminology.

Tawake also raised concerns about the use of disability as a basis for detaining a person.

Her submission highlighted the importance of safeguards that protect people with disabilities from discrimination and ensure their rights are respected.

Fiji ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2017 and introduced the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act in 2018.

Tawake’s submission asks that the country’s constitutional framework reflect the principles of dignity, equality and protection that underpin disability rights.

BY: JOELI RAGONELIWA