Fiji was a dominion, a member of the Commonwealth, and a parliamentary democracy, acknowledging the British sovereign, through a governor-general, as head of state until the coup d’état of May 1987. Tthe Fiji Islands officially left the Commonwealth and became a republic in October 1987. The coup leader, then Lieutenant Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka, appointed a civilian government headed by a president with a largely ceremonial role. The government was composed of a Prime Minister and cabinet of appointed members, almost all of whom were ethnic Fijians. On July 25, 1990, a new constitution, which concentrated power in the hands of Fijians, was promulgated. Membership in the House of Representatives was raised from 52 to 70, with 37 of the seats reserved for Fijians, 27 for Indians, five for other races, and one for Rotumans. The seats were filled by communal (ethnic) roll. Membership in the Senate was increased from 24 to 34, with 24 of the seats reserved for Fijians, nine for Indians and other races, and one for Rotumans. The constitution also stipulated that the Prime Minister must be a Fijian.The constitution was amended in July 1997, placing great emphasis on fundamental rights, freedoms and representation. It also conforms to all of the major United Nations instruments relating to land rights, customs, traditions and cultural inheritance.
The executive authority is vested in the President who is appointed by the Bose Levu Vakaturaga (Great Council of Chiefs). The parliament has an elected House of Representatives and a nominated Upper House or Senate. The Prime Minister now may be from any ethnicity. The House of Representative now will comprise 71 members, with 25 open seats, and 46 communal seats: 23 for Fijians, 19 for Indians, 1 Rotuman, and 3 Others. The Senate will consist of 32 members appointed by the President of whom: 14 are appointed on advice of the Bose Levu Vakaturaga, 9 on advice of the Prime Minister, 8 on advice of the Leader of the Opposition, and 1 on advice of the Council of Rotuma.
One reason why Fiji is such a popular destination for English speaking travellers is that there is no need to learn another language. The majority of Fijians speak English and all of the signage and official documentation is in English.
However, it is important to remember that English is not the native language of local Fijians, there are two languages spoken, Fijian and Fijian Hindi. To gain a better rapport with the local people it is always a good idea to try and communicate in their own language. You will find most Fijians very supportive and offer you encouragement.