Christian God should be recognized in the Constitution – Sole founder The debate over whether Fiji should formally recognize the Christian God in its constitution has resurfaced during the ongoing constitutional review process. Advocates argue that such acknowledgment reflects Fiji’s historical and cultural foundations, while opponents emphasize the importance of maintaining a secular state that guarantees religious freedom for all. Semi Tukana, founder of Sole Fintech, has been a prominent voice in this discussion. In his submission to the Constitution Review Commission, Tukana asserted that recognizing the Christian God is not about imposing religion but about honoring the historical role Christianity has played in shaping Fiji’s national identity. He pointed to the arrival of Christian missionaries in 1835 and their influence in transforming Fijian society, including moving away from practices such as cannibalism and fostering a culture of tolerance and inclusivity. Tukana criticized the preamble of the 2013 Constitution, which defines Fiji as a secular state, arguing that this designation overlooks the nation’s Christian heritage. He contrasted it with the 1997 Constitution, whose foreword explicitly referenced the “blessing of God” and acknowledged the conversion of the iTaukei to Christianity as a more accurate reflection of Fiji’s roots. He maintained that formal recognition of Christianity in the constitution would not undermine religious freedom but would instead coexist with it. “There is nothing wrong, and no one will lose anything, by stating that the nation acknowledges Christianity,” Tukana said, adding that democratic freedoms in Fiji are themselves rooted in the nation’s religious heritage. Beyond religious recognition, Tukana also advocated for the reinstatement of the Senate in Parliament, describing it as a body that represents the voices of the people and the land they inhabit. The Constitution Review Commission continues to receive submissions from various stakeholders and is scheduled to conduct public consultations in May. As Fiji re-examines its foundational legal document, the tension between honoring historical influences and upholding a secular, inclusive framework remains central to the national conversation.
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