IT is the belief of the Soqosoqo Duavata Ni Lewenivanua (SDL) Party that Fiji's creative strength is derived from its diversity.
In its submission to the Constitution Commission, the party said Fiji's ability to forge a durable sense of national unity depended on the ability to recognise the importance of affirming diversity, in all its expressions.
Ro Teimumu Kepa, who presented on behalf of the party, said that means any attempt to steam-roll a false sense of unity by denying Fiji's diversity in a constitution would simply not work and that it did not work in the past.
The party informed the commission that Fiji had been through a period of instability and uncertainty, conflict and divisiveness brought about by political instability
She said the coups of May 14 and September 25 in 1987, on May 19, 2000, and on December 5, 2006, had severely eroded public confidence and caused major disruptions to the economy and to the people.
"This has demonstrated the need to restore stability and allow people to live their daily lives in peace, and with a sense of security," Ro Teimumu said.
"Achieving peace and security in our multi-racial country is a long-term commitment that must be vigorously pursued through building understanding as well as through recognising and appreciating the different communities' contribution to nation-building," she said.