The Fiji Islands Council of Trade Unions is questioning why the right to life is limited in the draft constitution.
FICTU which is part of a group called the United Front for a Democratic Fiji said this needs to be amended.
The draft says every person has the right to life and a person must not be arbitrarily deprived of life. It then goes on to say that deprivation of life shall not be regarded as inflicted in contravention of this section when it results from the use of force which is no more than absolutely necessary. These cases include in defense of any person from unlawful violence, in order to affect a lawful arrest or to prevent the escape of a person lawfully detained or in action lawfully taken for the purpose of quelling a riot or insurrection.
FICTU General Secretary, Attar Singh said he and the members of the United Front are concerned about this provision as everyone has a right to life and there should be no limitations.
According to an analysis by Fijivillage, the limitation on the right to life as stated in the draft constitution has been taken word for word from the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.
This convention is followed in the 47 member countries of the Council of Europe.
Singh said he knows this but he is seeking more advice on this matter.
Singh confirmed that the United Front is having a public consultation session on the draft constitution at Suva's FTA Hall today.
He said sessions will also be held in other divisions.
We are still trying to speak to Attorney General, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum on the issue.
Story by: Vijay Narayan
Why the right to life is limited in draft constitution-FICTU
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