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\fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 IN THE SUPREME COURT OF FIJI ISLANDS
\par AT SUVA
\par ORIGINAL JURISDICTION
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1195131 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1195131 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 Miscellaneous Case No 1 of 2003
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1195131 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 IN THE MATTER}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
 of Section 123 of the Constitution Amendment Act 1997
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\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 His Excellency the President of Fiji for an opinion on questions relating to the interpretation of}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 Section 99 of the Constitution Amendment Act 1997
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\par }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 First Interested Party
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\par }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 Second Interested Party
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\par Coram:}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 Hon Justice}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 Daniel Fatiaki, President of Supreme Court
\par Rt Hon Justice Thomas Gault, Judge of Supreme Court
\par Hon Justice Keith Mason, Judge of Supreme Court
\par Hon Justice Robert French Judge of Supreme Court
\par Hon Justice Mark Weinberg, Judge of Supreme Court
\par 
\par Hearing:}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 Tuesday, 11}{\fs24\insrsid3568518\charrsid1195131 th}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131  May 2004, Suva
\par 
\par Counsel:}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 Mr Stephen Gageler SC}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 \tab ]
\par Ms Nehla Basawaiya]}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 for the First Interested
\par Ms Rakuita Vuniwaqa]}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 Party
\par 
\par }{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131 Professor George Williams}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 ]
\par }{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131 Mr Gyaneshwar Prasad Lala}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 ]}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 for the Second Interested 
\par Ms Shoma D}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131 evan }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 ]}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 Party
\par 
\par Date of Judgment}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131 :}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131  }{\fs24\insrsid3568518\charrsid1195131 Friday, 9th }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 July 2004}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid1195131  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }{\fs24\insrsid5259175\charrsid1195131 
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\par Introduction and Background
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\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 On 17 October His Excellency the President of Fiji referred to the Supreme Court under Section 123 of the Constitution Amendment Act 1997 }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5839157 (}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5839157 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5839157 the Constitution}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5839157 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5839157 )}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 
, questions about the effect of section 99 of the Constitution relating to the appointment of Ministers and the representation of political parties in the Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7369085  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 
The section establishes a mechanism for implementing power sharing in Fiji through the creation of a multi-party Cabinet.
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\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 It has already been s
ettled by the judgment of this Court delivered on 18 July 2003 that the Prime Minister is under a constitutional obligation to consult with the Leader of the Fiji Labour Party and to advise the President to appoint as ministers and appoint to Cabinet such
 number of parliamentary members of the Fiji Labour Party as is in proportion to their numbers in the House of Parliament. The questions referred to the Court relate to the numbers of persons to be so appointed. 
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\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 The resolution of the questions referred to the Court depends upon the interpretation of section 99(5).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7369085  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 
That interpretation must be undertaken by reference to the meaning and context of the words used in section 99(5), the purpose of the provision, the drafting history of the Constitution and th
e relevant principles in the Compact which is set out in section 6.
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\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 The interested parties are the Prime Minister, Mr Laisenia}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7369085  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 Qarase, who is the leader of the }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5839157 
Soqosoqo ni Duavata ni Lewenivuana Party}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085  }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5839157 (SDL}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 ) and Mr Mahendra Pal Chaudhry, who is the leader of the }{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5839157 Fiji Labour Party (FLP).}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 
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\fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 The questions involve the method of calculating the apportionment of positions in}{\fs24\insrsid7369085\charrsid7369085  a multi-party Cabinet.}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 
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\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 6.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7369085 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 Section 99 of the Constitution provides:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid10713823\charrsid7369085 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 99(1)\tab The President appoints and dismisses other Ministers on the advice of the Prime Minister.

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid12477518\charrsid7369085 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 (2)\tab 
To be eligible for appointment, a Minister must be a member of the House of Representatives or the Senate.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid12477518\charrsid7369085 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 (3)\tab The Prime Minister must establish a multi-party C
abinet in the way set out in this section comprising such number of Ministers as he or she determines.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid12477518\charrsid7369085 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 (4)\tab 
Subject to this section, the composition of the Cabinet should, as far as possible, fairly represent the parties represented in the House of Representatives.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 (5)\tab 
In establishing the Cabinet, the Prime Minister must invite all parties whose membership in the House of Representatives comprises at least 10% of the total membership of the House to be represented in the Cabinet in proportion to their numb
ers in the House.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid16672041\charrsid7369085 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 (6)\tab 
If the Prime Minister selects for appointment to the Cabinet a person from a party whose membership in the House of Representatives is less than 10% of the total membership of the House, that selection is deemed, for the purposes of 
this section, to be a selection of a person from the Prime Minister\rquote s own party.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid16672041\charrsid7369085 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 (7)\tab 
If a party declines an invitation from the Prime Minister to be represented in the Cabinet, the Prime Minister must allocate the Cabinet positions to which that party would have been entitled amongst the other parties (including the Prime Minister\rquote 
s party) in proportion, as far as possible, to their respective entitlements under subsection (5).}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid16672041\charrsid7369085 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid6497534\charrsid7369085 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 (8)\tab If all parties (apart from the Prime Minister\rquote s party and the party (if an
y) with which it is in coalition) decline an invitation from the Prime Minister to be represented in the Cabinet, the Prime Minister may look to his or her own party or coalition of parties to fill the places in the Cabinet.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid6497534\charrsid7369085 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 (9)\tab 
In selecting persons from parties other than his or her own party for appointment as Ministers, the Prime Minister must consult with the leaders of those parties.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\fs24\insrsid10713823\charrsid7369085 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5839157 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 The background facts are not in dispute and may be summarised as follows.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7369085 {\fs24\insrsid12279939\charrsid7369085 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 7.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx720\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7369085 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 There are 71 members in the House of Representatives elected in accordance with the Constitution (section 51 in particular) to represent single-member constituencies.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7369085  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7369085 At the time of the hearing the composition of the House of Representatives in consequence of the general election and subsequent developments was:
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7369085 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10713823\charrsid1195131 

\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7039238 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\insrsid7369085\charrsid7039238 SDL - }{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 32 members
\par }{\b\fs24\insrsid7369085\charrsid7039238 FLP - }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 28
\par Conservative}{\b\fs24\insrsid7369085\charrsid7039238  Alliance Matanitu Vanua (CAMV) - }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 6
\par }{\b\fs24\insrsid7369085\charrsid7039238 New Labour Unity Party (NLUP)-}{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 2
\par }{\b\fs24\insrsid7369085\charrsid7039238 United General Party-}{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\b\fs24\insrsid7039238\charrsid7039238 1
\par Independent-}{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 2
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 

\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 8.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\tqc\tx360\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
On 10 September 2001, the President appointed Mr Qarase as Prime Minister under section 98 of the Constitution.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
On that day Mr Qarase wrote to Mr Chaudhry extending an invitation to join Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 Mr Chaudhry replie
d accepting such invitation and stating his availability to engage in a consultative process.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\tqc\tx360\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 9.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\tqc\tx360\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
On and shortly after 12 September 2001, acting on the advice of the Prime Minister and under section 99(1) of the Constitution, the President appointed a Cabinet of 21 members of whom one was a member of the Senate and 20 were members of the House of Repr
esentatives. The 20 members from the House had the following allegiances:
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10713823\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7039238 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\insrsid7039238\charrsid7039238 SDL-}{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 16
\par }{\b\fs24\insrsid7039238\charrsid7039238 CAMV-}{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 2
\par NLUP \tab }{\b\fs24\insrsid7039238\charrsid7039238 -}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 1
\par }{\b\fs24\insrsid7039238\charrsid7039238 Independent-}{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 1
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 10.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx720\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 On 24 April 2002 the High Court}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 made a declaration in the following terms:}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid8588365\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
That as and from 10 September 2001 the [Prime Minister] was and is required and obliged by the Constitution to consult the Leader of the Fiji Labour Party pursuant to section 99(9) of the Constitution and thereafter:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid7039238\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (i)}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
to advise the President to appoint as Minister; and
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (ii)}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
to appoint to the Cabinet;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
such number of parliamentary members of the Fiji Labour Party as is in proportion to their numbers in the House of Representatives.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14439796\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 11.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
On 24 May 2002 the Court of Appeal dismissed an appeal from the judgment of the High Court.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 12.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 On 10 March 2003, acting on the advice of the Prime Minister and under section 99(1) of the Constitution, the President appointed a further member of }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 SDL}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238  to a position as a Minister within the Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 13.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 On 18 July 2003 the Supreme Court dismissed an appeal from the judgment of the Court of Appeal (}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 Qarase v Chaudhry}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
 [2003] FJSC 1) (hereafter }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14439796\charrsid7039238 \lquote }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 the 2003 Supreme Court Judgment}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14439796\charrsid7039238 \rquote }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 )}{
\fs24\insrsid14439796\charrsid7039238 .}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 14.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 Since that date, the Prime Minister and Mr Chaudhry have met and corresponded in relation to the formation of a multi-party Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
The Prime Minister has indicated his intention to reconstitute the Cabinet by increasing its number from 22 to 36 and by selecting for appointment 14 members of }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 .}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 For various reasons, the invitation has not been accepted. One point of disagreement between the two party leaders concerns Mr Chaudhry\rquote 
s contention that section 99 of the Constitution entitles }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 FLP }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 to 17 positions in a Cabinet of 36.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 The underlying disagreement has thrown up the issues raised in Questions 1 and 3 in the President's Reference.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 The Questions Referred and the Answers Proposed By the Interested Parties
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 15.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 
\fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 The Questions referred are:
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7039238 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 1.
\tab }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 On their proper construction, do the words }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 in proportion to their numbers in the House of Representatives}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238  in sub-section 99(5) of the Constitution and in the declaration made by the High Court on 24 April 2002 refer to: 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid10713823\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (1)\tab the proportion of:
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li2160\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid7039238 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (i)}
{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 \tab members of a party whose membership of the House of Representatives is at least 10% of the total membership of the House of Representatives; to
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li2160\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (ii)\tab the total membership of the House of Representatives; 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9524967\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7039238 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (2)\tab the proportion of: 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9524967\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li2160\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid7039238 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (i)\tab 
members of a party whose membership of the House of Representatives is at least 10% of the total membership of the House of Representatives; to 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li2160\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (ii)\tab 
the total membership of all parties whose membership of the House of Representatives is at least 10% of the total membership of the House of Representatives; or
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8588365\charrsid1195131 

\par }\pard\plain \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7039238 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (3)\tab 
some other, and if so what, proportion?
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8588365\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7039238 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 2.\tab 
Is the proportion of positions in Cabinet to which a party is entitled under subsection 99(5) to be determined:
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7039238 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (1)\tab 
as at the date of invitation; 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid6497534\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (2)\tab from time to time as the composition of the House of Representatives changes; or
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid7938640\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (3)\tab as at some other and, if so, what time?
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 3.\tab 
Therefore, is the proportion of positions in Cabinet to which the FLP is currently entitled under subsection 99(5):
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7039238 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (1)\tab 39%
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (2)\tab 47%
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (3)\tab some other, and if so what, percentage?
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12477518\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 16.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 
\fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 The Prime Minister proposes that Question 1 should be answered in accordance with its first suggested response.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 Mr Chaudhry proposes the second suggested response.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 17.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 The parties agree that Question 2 should be answered in accordance with its second suggested response, a proposition with which this Court also agrees for reasons set out in the 2003 Supreme Court Judgment at [117].}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 Section 99 speaks continuously in the present.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 This is why we shall adopt the expression }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12910689 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12910689 qualifying party}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12910689 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
 to refer to parties entitled to receive invitations to be represented in Cabinet.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 18.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 Question 3 sets out the mathematical consequences of the Court\rquote s answers to the earlier Questions in light of the current rep
resentation of the political parties in the House of Representatives and the Prime Minister\rquote s intention to have a Cabinet of 36.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 The Prime Minister proposes 39% (ie 14 }
{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12910689 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238  Cabinet positions) and Mr Chaudhry proposes 47% (ie 17 }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12910689 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
 Cabinet positions) as the answer to Question 3.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 (The slight variation between the figures and those stated in the President\rquote 
s Reference reflects the agreed consequences of recent by-elections.)
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\b\fs24\insrsid14373254\charrsid7039238 
\par }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 The 2003 Supreme Court Judgment
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10713823\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid10713823\charrsid7039238 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 19.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 
\fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid10713823\charrsid7039238 T}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 he 2003 Supreme Court 
Judgment discusses the background of section 99 and the interpretative principles governing constitutional litigation.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 It reaffirmed principles drawn from }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 The President of the Republic of Fiji Islands v Kubuabola}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238  [1999] FJSC 8 (hereafter the \lquote 1999 Supreme Court Opinion\rquote ) and }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 In the matter of a Reference for an Opinion by his Excellency the President of the Republic of the Fiji Islands on the interpretation of sections 64 and 99 of the Constitution (Amendment) Act 1997}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238  [2002] FJSC 11 (hereafter }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid8808097\charrsid3564630 \lquote }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 the 2002 Supreme Court Opinion\rquote }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 ).}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 The 2003 Supreme Court Judgment was a primary point of reference for the submissions of the parties, which only diverged in relation to par [142] thereof (set out below).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 20.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7039238 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 The outcome of the 2001 election was that the only parties with more than 10}{\fs24\insrsid9524967\charrsid7039238 %}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
 of the total membership of the House of Representatives were }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 SDL}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238  and }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 FLP.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 The Prime Minister advised the President to appoint Ministers from }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 SDL, CAMV, NLUP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
 and Independents, taking the view that Mr Chaudhry's response to his invitation of 12 September 2001 was tantamount to }{\fs24\insrsid9524967\charrsid7039238 a }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 rejection of the invitation to }{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238  to be represented in Cabinet, thereby discharging the Prime Minister\rquote s obligation to }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 FLP}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238  under section 99.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 This Court (agreeing with the Court of Appeal) found that the Prime Mini
ster's invitation had been consistent with his obligation under section 99(5), but that the Prime Minister was not entitled to treat Mr Chaudhry\rquote 
s response as a rejection of the invitation or as dispensation from the constitutional duty to consult with Mr Chaudhry in relation to the selection of members of }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 
 for inclusion in the Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7039238  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7039238 The ensuing declaration (made by the High Court, and upheld in the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court) is set out above.
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1195131 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\kerning28\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\kerning0\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 21.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx630\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 It is unnecessary to
 repeat at length this Court's discussion about the approach to the interpretation of the Constitution at par}{\fs24\insrsid9524967\charrsid3564630 a}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 s [68]ff of the 2003 Supreme Court Judgment.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid3564630  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 For present purposes, it is sufficient to refer to the statement (at [71]), drawn from the 1999 Supreme Court Opinion, that }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid3564630 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 the sharing of power was a central purpose of the 1997 Constitution}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid3564630 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 
; and the recognition (at [86]) that the system of multi-party representation in Cabinet was, in the words of the Joint Parliamentary Select Committee }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 (JPSC)}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 , to be
 made subject to a }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid3564630 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 constitutional threshold}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid3564630 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630  that was embodied in section 99.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid3564630  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 The Court also observed (at [93]) that the Constitution itself established an }{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid3564630 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 
equitable sharing of political power}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid3564630 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630  by the requirements for the composition of the Parliament in
 sections 51 and 64 and the requirements for the composition of the Cabinet in section 99: }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid3564630 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 
In the two manifestations of political power - legislative and executive - express provision was made for power sharing.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid3564630 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx630\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 22.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx630\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 The construction of section 99 was expounded at }{\fs24\insrsid9524967\charrsid3564630 paras. }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 [97ff].}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid3564630  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 Because of relevance to the particular issues in this Reference we repeat the following paragraphs from the 2003 Supreme Court Judgment:
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 98.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 \tab Subsection 99(1) establishes the basic mechanism for the appointment and dismissal of Ministers.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
Appointment and dismissal is the function of the President and the President alone.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
But in carrying out the function he or she acts upon the advice of the Prime Minister.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 By virtue of subs
 96(1) he or she can appoint or dismiss Ministers only upon that advice.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
The Prime Minister is therefore the sole repository of authority to provide to the President, advice on the appointment or dismissal of Ministers upon which the President acts.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 That a
uthority is unimpaired by the obligation under subs 99(3), to establish a multi-party cabinet, for it is the Prime Minister who selects persons from parties other than his or her own party for appointment (subsection 99(9)).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 99.\tab Subsection 99(2) prescribe
s, as a qualification for ministerial appointment, membership of the House of Representatives or the Senate.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
It should be read with section 105(1)(d) which provides that the appointment of a Minister terminates if the Minister ceases to be a member of Parliament\'85.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 100.\tab 
The primary obligation of the Prime Minister to establish a multi-party cabinet is created by subs 99(3).}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 The text is explicit.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 He or she \lquote must\rquote  establish such a Cabinet.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
That obligation is to be discharged }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 in the way set out}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925  in section 99.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
A literal interpretation of subsection 99(3) would read it as creating an unconditional obligation defining, by reference to the balance of section, the way in which that obligation is to be discharged.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 However as noted above, section 82 of the Constitut
ion envisages the possibility (unlike the traditional Westminster model) that all parties are represented in cabinet and that accordingly there can be no leader of the opposition.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 The balance of the section recognizes that it may not be possible for the Prime Minister to discharge the obligation it imposes.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 For it may be that all parties to whom invitations are extended under subsection 99(5) to be represented in the cabinet decline the invitation.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 In that event the Prime Minister }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 may look to his or her own party or coalition of parties to fill the positions in Cabinet.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 " }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 The obligation is thus qualified by the impossibility of its fulfilment where invitations are declined.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid3564630\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 \'85.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 104.\tab The provision for a }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 multi-party Cabinet}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925  in section 99 of the Constitution represents a modification of the Westminster model\'85.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 106.\tab 
Certain familiar incidents of cabinet government established under the Westminster system are apparent from the text of the Constitution.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
First there is the requirement that }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 the Cabinet is collectively responsible to the House of Representatives for the Governance of the State}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925  (subsection 102(1)).}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
Linked to that is the requirement that governments must have the confidence of the House of Representatives (section 97).}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 The notion of collective resp
onsibility has historically been expressed in terms of cabinet solidarity.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
That is to say, Ministers who are members of the Cabinet will publicly stand by decisions of the Cabinet and, if unable to do so, will resign.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
That this traditional concept informs the term }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 collectively responsible}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
 in s.102 is reinforced by the terms of the Oath or Affirmation of Office that each person appointed as a Minister is required; by section 101, to make before the President.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 That Oath or Affirmation is set out above and includes a promise not to disclose Cabinet deliberations.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 107.\tab 
The objective of a multi-party Cabinet to which section 99(3) is directed, is capable of being achieved consistently with these constitutionally recognized attributes of Cabinet government in Fiji.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 For a}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
Cabinet may consist of members of different parties who bring to it differing perspectives and policies and yet reach collective decision after discussion, negotiation and compromise.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 It may be that the convention of Cabinet solidarity will be satisfied in such a case by a dissenting Minister refraining from publicly criticizing a decision contrary to his own party policy.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 It is not to be expected, at this early stage of the implementation of the 1997 Constitution, that there will be settled conv
entions to cover all contingencies or difficulties.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 Conventions cannot be the subject of judicial prescription.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 They are matters for the elected representatives of the people to develop in working out the future governance of their nation.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 That, it is hardly necessary to say, mandates a degree of give and take and good faith on all sides.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid3564630\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 \'85.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 109.\tab 
Subsection 99(4) is a statement of the principles underpinning the way in which the Cabinet is to be composed.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 It gives content to the term }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 multi-party cabinet}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925  in s99(3) by requiring that the composition of the Cabinet }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 \'85as far as possible fairly represents the parties represented in the House of Representatives}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 .}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 The term }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 as far as possible}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925  reflects the reality that the parties may not be able to be represented in Cabinet in exact mathematical proportion to their seats in the House.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 It also reflects the practical limitation that some parties may decline the Prime Minister\rquote s invitation.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid3564630\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 \'85.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 110.\tab Subsection 99(5) then imposes upon the Prime Minister the precise obligation to }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 \'85
invite all parties whose membership in the House of Representatives comprises at least 10% of the total membership of the House to be represented in the Cabinet in proportion to their numbers in the House.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 " }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 Again the obligation is emphatically expressed.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 The Prime Minister }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 must}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925  extend the invitation to all eligible parties.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 The invitation to the parties contemplated by subsection 99(5) is an invitation }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 to be represented in the Cabinet}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 .}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
This is not simply an invitation for their members to be there without any agenda or policies of their own.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
This is a provision which advances the central constitutional purpose of power sharing.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 111.\tab Subsection 99(5) by referring to represe
ntation of the eligible parties allows that their representatives may take into Cabinet deliberations their own policies and agendas.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
If they do so however, they do so subject to the requirements of collective responsibility and confidentiality which are recognized in the Constitution as aids to effective government.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 This may mean a more difficult Cabinet to manage than a Cabinet whose members belong to the same party or a coalition that has worked out some consensus before}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 its formation.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 But this is the ki
nd of Cabinet that is envisaged by the Constitution and it cannot be rejected as unworkable in principle because of that difficulty.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 112.\tab Division of opinion in cabinets is nothing new.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 
 }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 The conventions of collective responsibility and cabinet confidentiality respond to division and allow conflict in Cabinet to be managed so that effective government is possible.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 The Prime Minister is entitled therefore to say that his own appointees intend to implement the policies of his party.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 That is not to prevent representatives of other parties from urging}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 their own policies where they arise.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 Nor is it beyond the bounds of possibility that negotiated outcomes in the national interest will be reached.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 Section 99 aims to encourage debate on contentious policies including debate across party lines.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
It may also be observed that there is much in the routine business of government that will not involve any real clash of policy at all.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
Indeed much of the routine work of individual Ministers does not require references to Cabinet.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 113.\tab 
Subsection 99(7) provides for an imperfect form of multi-party cabinet where one or more, but not all, eligible parties decline the Prime Minister\rquote s invitation.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
The allocation of ministerial positions is re-determined in accordance with the proportions of the accepting parties inter se.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
Subsection (7) is of importance for the present case in that it refers to the }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 entitlements}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925  of parties to }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 Cabinet positions.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 " }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
This lies against the proposition that the obligation to invite parties to be represented is no more than any obligation to treat and to negotiate in good faith.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
The purpose of the mandatory invitation under section 99(5) is, save when any party declines to participate, to ensure that each party is, in fact, represented in Cabinet.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 It is such actual representation that is described in mandatory language as an }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 entitlement}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925  in section 99(7) and which is protected from dilution by sub-section 99(6) and (7).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 114.\tab Subsection 99(8) as earlier noted, recognizes that the Prime Minister\rquote s primary 
obligation may not be capable of being discharged.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 115.\tab 
Subsection 99(9) leaves the formal power of selection of persons from parties other than his or her own, in the hands of the Prime Minister subject to consultation with the leaders of those parties.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 In the ordinary course it is likely that the persons appointed will be appointed with the consent of their party or its leadership.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 116.\tab The structure of section 99 has a certain linear logic about it.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 It will, however, operate in the context of political posturing and negotiation.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
Negotiation between the Prime Minister and the leaders of various parties may take place in advance of any formal invitation or concurrently with its issue.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
There may be interrelated discussions about the formation of coalitions or the development of protocols or understandings in relation to certain areas of policy.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
The persons to be appointed as ministers and the portfolios allocated to them will also, in all probability, have a role to play in such negotiations.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 Equally, in de
termining whether or not to accept an invitation, parties will not doubt consider whether it might be preferable to remain out of Cabinet and in opposition.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
It must also be remembered that the appointment of the Prime Minister precedes the establishment of the Cabinet.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
That appointment may itself have been the product of negotiations leading to the formation of coalitions or undertakings of support.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid3564630\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 \'85.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 130.\tab As this Court said in the \lquote 1999 Supreme Court Opinion\rquote  at page 8:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 The Court is satisfied that the
 concept of power sharing in the Constitution requires invitation to the Cabinet, and consequently in effect to the Senate, to be issued to parties with at least 10% of House membership, other than the Prime Minister\rquote s own party.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 His own party is protected by his rights to establish his Cabinet (subject always to the principles in section 99) and to secure 9 Senate appointments}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 .
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid3564630\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 \'85.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid3564630\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 135.\tab 
The order made [on 24 April 2002] correctly states that the Prime Minister must consult with the Leader of the FLP under section 99(9) and advise the President to appoint the number of persons stated to the Cabinet.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 Subject to that obligation, the composition of the Cabinet, the identification of the persons to be Ministers and the operations of the Cabinet are not constit
utionally prescribed.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
They are matters to be determined by political practice and perhaps eventually, by constitutional convention, which are inherently more flexible than constitutional prescription.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 136.\tab There is not, in our opinion, any aspect of the c
ircumstances of the present case which suggests that this flexibility should be constrained by making such matters potentially justiciable in a constitutional context.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
The Constitution provides for a range of pertinent contingencies which may arise, including disagreement over policy.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 137.\tab 
First, there is express provision for the consequences of a party declining an invitation in subsection 99(7) and (8).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 138.\tab 
Secondly, the Prime Minister retains the authority to select persons for appointment as Ministers and to allocate portfolios [sections 103(1) and (2)].}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
This process of selection and allocation may well accommodate differences in policy.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 The right of a part
y leader to be consulted under section 99(9), although his or her views are entitled to weight and the process must be a genuine consultation, is not a right of concurrence.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 This contrasts with the right of that leader to nominate a member of Senate under section 64(2).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 139.\tab 
Thirdly, the Government, manifest in the Cabinet, must collectively retain the confidence of the House of Representatives under section 97.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 140.\tab Fourthly, the Cabinet is collectively responsible to the House of Representatives under s
ection 102(1).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 141.\tab 
Fifthly, each Minister is individually responsible to the House of Representatives [section 102(2)].
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 142.\tab 
Furthermore, when, as has occurred there are only two parties which have more than 10% of the membership of the House, the Prime Minister can ensure that the majority party has a majority in the Cabinet. [subsections 99(4), (5) and (6)].}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 It may also be noted that so long as the Prime Minister\rquote s Party has a majority of the total of parliamentary seats held by that party and all othe
r eligible parties it will have an entitlement to a majority of the positions in the Cabinet.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
For assuming each eligible party accepts the invitation for representation in the Cabinet its entitlement to representation will be measured by the proportion of 
the number of parliamentary seats it holds to the total number of parliamentary seats held by the Government or Coalition party and all eligible parties.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
On that basis, in the present case, }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid16328525\charrsid6501925 The }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 Prime Minister\rquote s party has an entitlement to a majority position in Cabinet.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 143.\tab 
These structural elements should enable the creation of a workable government, without the necessity of a prior coalition agreement.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
Whether such an agreement is or is not desirable, and if it is desirable what should be the scope and detail of its content, is not a matter that should be constitutionalised.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 It}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 can be left to the political exigencies of the times and the ultimate sanction of the ballot box.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 An agreement of this character is not pre-condition of membership of the multi-party Cabinet envisaged by section 99 of the Constitution.
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6501925 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12477518\charrsid6501925 

\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 23.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx360\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 Mr Chaudhry has placed particular reliance upon para [142]}
{\fs24\insrsid16328525\charrsid3564630  above}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630  in his correspondence with the Prime Minister on behalf of }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10837851 FLP }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 
and in his submissions in this Court.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid3564630  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 
The dicta in the third and fourth sentences were not the product of detailed submissions and close scrutiny of earlier precedent involved in the present Reference.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid3564630  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 
As will appear, alternative scenarios and the position of Independents have triggered a full examination of the issues, including fresh issues perceived as likely to arise in the working out of this complex constitutional provision.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 
\par The Competing Submissions}{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 24.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\tqc\tx360\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3564630 
\fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid3564630 The focus of the dispute is the interpretation of section 99 (5), which provides:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6501925 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15297448 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
In establishing the Cabinet, the Prime Minister must invite all parties whose membership in the House of Representatives comprises at least 10% of the total membership of the House to be represented in the Cabinet in proportion to their numbers in the Hou
se.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8732207\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 25.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 
\fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 We shall hereafter refer to parties whose membership in the House comprises at least 10% of the total membership of the House as }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 qualifying parties}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 .}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
 But we emphasise that this does not pre-empt the issue whether the Prime Minister\rquote s own party is within the contemplation of subsection (5) either as a party entitled to be invited or as a party whose proportionate }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 entitlement}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448  to Cabinet positions is somehow fixed by subsection (5).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {\fs24\insrsid2369433\charrsid15297448 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 26.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 The parties to this Reference agree that, in the current circumstances, subsection (5) requires the Prime Minister to invite }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
 to be represented in the proposed Cabinet of 36.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 That obligation and }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 FLP\rquote }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 s}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448  correlative entitlement to receive an invitation stems from the fact that }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
 is undoubtedly a qualifying party within the purview of subsection (5). The Prime Minister has made such an invitation.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 27.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 The point of disagreement concerns the words }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 in proportion to their numbers in the House}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448  and the identification of the denominator of the relevant fraction.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
The current numerator is agreed at 28, ie the present }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 numbers in the House}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448  of }
{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 FLP.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 28.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 The Prime Minister's submission is that the correct denominator is 71, ie the present membership of the House, there being no current vacancies (cf}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 section 50).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 This produces }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 39%}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
 which translates to an entitlement to 14 }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448  positions in a proposed Cabinet of 36.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
Mr Chaudhry\rquote s submission is that, in the present circumstances, the correct denominator is 60, ie 28 plus 32, being the current numbers of the }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 FLP }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 and }{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 SDP }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 parties, those being the only parties to have passed the 10% threshold referred to in subsection (5).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 This produces }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 47% }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 which translates to an entitlement of 17 positions in the proposed Cabinet.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 29.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 Mr Chaudhry submits that a direct and authoritative answer is given in par}{\fs24\insrsid16328525\charrsid15297448 a}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448  [142] of the 2003 Supreme Court Judgment (set out above).}
{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 This, he submits, should be the end of the matter.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
The Prime Minister counters with reliance upon principles drawn from other portions of the 2003 Supreme Court Judgment and from the 1999 and 2002 Supreme Court Opinions.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
It was contended that para [142] was obiter, alternatively that it ought not to be followed in light of issues exposed and more fully debated in this Reference.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
Respect for precedent is i
mportant in constitutional matters. But the parties are entitled in the circumstances to have the underlying issues squarely addressed, if only as a prelude to addressing such precedential questions as emerge when the earlier decisions are closely analyse
d.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 30.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 The Prime Minister submits that subsection}{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 (5) addresses a single matter in a composite manner.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448 
 }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 The matter is the entitlement of qualifying parties to be invited to be represented in the Cabinet in proportion to their numbers in the House.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 The subsection imposes a duty on the Prime Minister to make an invitation to all qualifying parties and confers a correlative right on those parties to receive such an invitation.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 The invitation is a mandatory first step in the establishment of a multi-party Cabinet by the Prime Minister through the processes of section 99 as a whole. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 31.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 According to the Prime Minister, the (qualifying) parties referred to in subsection (5) exclude the Prime Minister's own party, a proposition for which senior counsel for the Pr
ime Minister cited the 1999, 2002 Opinions and }{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid15297448 2003 Supreme Court Judgment . (s}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
ee para [130] of the 2003 Judgment, set out above and the passages from the earlier Opinions set out}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 below).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 32.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 The identification of parties entitled to be invited in accordance with subsection (5) turns upon the percentage of seats held by them in the House.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 By definition, the denominator of the relevant fraction for that exercise is the membership of the House as a whole, ie 71 members (unless there are casual vacancies).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 Be
cause the latter part of subsection (5) confers on the invited party an entitlement to proportionate representation in Cabinet (subject to the following subsections), the Prime Minister submits that it is natural and reasonable to construe the content of 
the ensuing entitlement in the same way, and as based upon the same denominator.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 As Mr Gageler SC put it in his submissions to this Court:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15297448 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
That is, as a matter of construction the reference to their numbers can only refer to the numbers of each qualifying
 party, which necessarily excludes the Prime Minister's party; and the reference to the proportion of their numbers in the House, in our submission can only be read distributively in the same sense as the first part of the same sentence.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 So, \'85 for each qualifying party the proportion referred to is the proportion of its membership in the House to the total number of members in the House.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 That is, for both parts of the same sentence, the qualification part and the entitlement part, one uses the same numerator and the same denominator.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2369433\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 33.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 
\fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 It was further submitted on behalf of the Prime Minister that this approach to subsection (5) was in no way undermined by the later subsections.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 Subsections (6), (7) and (8) refer to the }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Prime Minister's (own) party}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 ,}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
 but the provisions were said to have their own work to do in the context of addressing the consequences of the Prime Minister selecting a member of a non-qualifying party to be a Minister following, and in the context of, the making of an invitation to a
 qualifying party and of a party or parties declining invitation(s) to}{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid15297448  be represented in the Cabinet [}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 subsection (7) and (8)}{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid15297448 ]}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 On the Prime Minister\rquote s submission, subsection (6) had its own work to do in relation to the later subsections.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 On this analysis, subsection}{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid15297448 s}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
 (6) to (8) do not enlarge the operation or scope of subsection (5) which, according to the Prime Minister, does not contemplate the Prime Minister issuing an invitation to his or her own party. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 34.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 The Prime Minister responded to submissions from Mr Chaudhry based upon section 64 of the Constitution and the parallels drawn between that section and section 99 in earlier Opinions of this Court.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 It was contended that section 64(2) appears in a different context, serves a different function and uses different language.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 We shall refer to these submissions in more detail below.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
For present purposes, it suffices to point out that the key distinction drawn in the Prime Minister's submission between section 64 and section 99 is that section 64(2) makes 
an exhaustive allocation of a defined number of seats (in the Senate), whereas section 99(5) deals only with the entitlement of qualifying parties (excluding the Prime Minister\rquote s party) to participate in the Cabinet.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 35.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 Implicit in these submissions (and later made explicit in Mr Gageler\rquote 
s answer to questions from the Bench) is the corollary that subs-sections (6) to (8) of section 99 are not exhaustive as to the distribution of Cabinet positions.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
They perform their own work according to their terms, spelling out the entit}{\fs24\insrsid13396401\charrsid15297448 lements of fair representation [}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 cf subs}{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid15297448 ection}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448  (4)}{\fs24\insrsid13396401\charrsid15297448 ]}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448  in a multi-party Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
When that work is done, the Prime Minister is free to fill the residue of unallocated Cabinet positions, as he or she wishes, in the manner contemplated by subsections}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
(1), (2) and (9).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 On this approach, no part of section 99 confers any }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \lquote entitlement\rquote }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448  upon the Prime Minister\rquote s party to any quota or proportion of Cabinet }{\fs24\insrsid5259175\charrsid15297448 positions}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 The Prime Minister is simply free to appoint anyone who is a member of Parliament to
 the Cabinet positions that are unallocated to qualifying parties through the (limited) operation of subsection (5), as qualified by the later subsections.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 36.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 This submission can be illustrated by applying the Prime Minister's approach to section 99 to the current membership of the House.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
On the Prime Minister's approach, 14 Cabinet }{\fs24\insrsid5259175\charrsid15297448 positions}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448  are to be offered to }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 FLP }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
in relation to his proposed Cabinet of 36.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 If that invitation is declined, then subsection (7) and (8) will work out the entitlements of all
 parties (including the Prime Minister\rquote s) to the redistributed 14 Cabinet positions.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
Some will pass to the Prime Minister's party by right pursuant to subsection (7), others to that party at the Prime Minister's option pursuant to subsection (8).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 Subsectio
n (6) defines the consequences of the Prime Minister selecting for appointment to Cabinet a person from a non-qualifying party, but only as necessary }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
for the purposes of this section}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
This exercise will leave 22 positions unaffected by the provisions of subsections (5) to (8).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
According to this submission, the Prime Minister is, and always was, free to allocate these 22 positions as he wishes, to members of his party, members of coalition parties, Independents or even members of }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 FLP.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 The Prime Minister\rquote s submission is that only 14 Cabinet positions are controlled by the mechanism spelt out in subsections (5) to (8).}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15297448  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 The balance of Cabinet positions may be offered to any member of the House or Senate, at the Prime Minister's discreti}{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid15297448 on [}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 subject to compliance with }{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid15297448 subsection (9) where applicable]}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 .
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15297448 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15297448 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 37.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx360\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 On this approach, there is no undistributed residue of Cabinet positions, because the generality of the language of subsections (1) to (3) ensures that the Prime Minister is constitutionally able to fill the Ca
binet of his chosen size.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 This approach also treats subsection (4) as essentially prefatory to what follows, but without being a substantive provi}{
\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid12146595 sion that assists Mr Chaudhry.}{\fs24\insrsid13396401\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid12146595 [}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
Mr Chaudhry did not place any direct reliance on subsection (4) in his contentions on the Reference.}{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid12146595 ]}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx360\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid2369433\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 38.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx360\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 The Prime Minister sought to demonstrate the impracticability of the interpretation for which Mr Chaudhry contends.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
He reminded the Court of its observation in the 2003 Supreme Court Judgment (at [68] citing from the 1999 Supreme Court Opinion) that}{\fs24\insrsid5259175\charrsid12146595 :}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 the Constitution has been drawn up with an eye to political realities and likelihoods}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 The Constitution also directs pr
eference, in the interpretation of a provision, for a construction that would promote the purpose or object underlying the provision, taking into account the spirit of the Constitution as a whole }{\fs24\insrsid13396401\charrsid12146595 [}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid6501925 cf}{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 section 3(a)}{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid12146595 ]}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 .
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx360\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 39.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx360\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 These general observations were the prelude to a more specific submission about the capacity of Mr Chaudhry's interpretation to undercut accepted principles and practices of Cabinet government.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Examples were given of the spectre of unworkability of a system whereby a Prime Minister might find Ministers from his or her party }{\fs24\insrsid13396401\charrsid12146595 
and }{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid12146595 coalition partners }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 invariably outnumbered in Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
Thus, to take the clearest hypothetical example, assume five parties with members in the House of Representatives: Party A with }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 40%}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  of the seats, Party B with }{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 45%}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  and Parties C, D and E with }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 5%}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  each.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Parties A, C, D and E form a coalition and the leader of Party A becomes Prime Minister.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
On Mr Chaudhry's interpretation of section 99, Party B would be entitled to be offered }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 52%}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  (ie 45/85) of Cabinet positions whereas,
 on the Prime Minister's interpretation, Party B would be offered }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 45%}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  of Cabinet positions.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx360\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 40.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 According to the Prime Minister, the framers of the Constitution can hardly be thought to have intended to create the possibility of such a situation, given th
eir adoption of the core institution of responsible Cabinet government (see subsections 98, 102 of the Constitution).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
Furthermore, the Cabinet produced in the hypothetical example would not }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 fairly represent}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595 "}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  the parties represented in the House }{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid12146595 [}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 cf}{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid12146595  section 99(4)]}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
Mr Chaudhry responds that this is a hypothetical situation and that the current dispute does not involve him claiming a majority of Cabinet positions for }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 .}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 He also refers to general statements in the 2003 Supreme Court }{\fs24\insrsid7239799\charrsid12146595 Judgment}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  as to th
e novel and evolving framework presented by the Constitution.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 41.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Mr Chaudhry submitted that section 99(5) provided that the proportion of }{\fs24\insrsid12213291\charrsid12146595 position}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 s for which }{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
 was entitled to receive an invitation in a proposed Cabinet is to be calculated by taking the proportion of the numbers of members of that party to the total membership in the House of Representatives of all qualifying parties plus the Prime Minister
\rquote s own party.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
The submission accepts that subsection (5) does not in terms state what the membership of qualifying parties is to be factored against to determine their representation in the Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 But this is said to be clearly implicit because, if subsection (5) does not include the Prime Minister\rquote 
s own party as a factor in the apportionment, there is no other mechanism in the Constitution for determining how many Cabinet positions the Prime Minister should have.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 42.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 According to Mr Chaudhry, section 99 is exhaustive in setting out in detail how representation in Cabinet is to be determined.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
The section does not contemplate that there could be membership in Cabinet other than in accordance with its terms, which deal exhaustively with the allocation of Cabinet }{\fs24\insrsid12213291\charrsid12146595 positions}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 , including allocation as between qualifying and non-qualifying parties.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 This submission denies the Prime Minister\rquote 
s suggestion that there is an unallocated residue of Cabinet positions that are not addressed in the apportionment f}{\fs24\insrsid8589918\charrsid12146595 ormula contained within the lat}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 er subsections. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 43.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Counsel for Mr Chaudhry recognised that his submission also excluded any entitlement of the Prime Minister to appoint Independents }{\fs24\insrsid8589918\charrsid12146595 or Senat}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 o}{\fs24\insrsid8589918\charrsid12146595 rs}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid12213291\charrsid12146595 into the }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Cabinet.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 44.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Mr Chaudhry supported his interpretation by reference to three textual and contextual considerations lying outside the four corners of subsection (5).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 45.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Mr Chaudhry submitted that the defect of the Prime Minister's interpretation is that it leaves some Cabinet positions unaccounted for.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
The example was given of a Cabinet of 20 positions formed at the present time when the only major parties are}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  SDL}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  (32 seats representing }{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 45%}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  of 71, translating into 9 out of 20 Cabinet positions) and }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
 (28 seats representing }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 39%}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  of 71, translating into 8 out of 20 Cabinet positions).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
This approach left three}{\fs24\insrsid8589918\charrsid12146595  (3)}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  Cabinet positions unaccounted for, in the sense that section 99 says nothing about how those positions should be allocated.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 By contrast, Mr Chaudhry's interpretation would see section 99 controlling the allocation of the entire 20 Cabinet positions in the sense that }{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 SDL }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 would be offered 11 and }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 FLP }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
would be offered 9 of the 20 Cabinet positions in the hypothetical situation.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 46.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Mr Chaudhry\rquote s next argument is that subsections (6) to (8) are inconsistent with any formula except one that allocates }{\b\fs24\ul\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 all}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
 Cabin}{\fs24\insrsid13396401\charrsid12146595 et }{\fs24\insrsid12213291\charrsid12146595 positions}{\fs24\insrsid13396401\charrsid12146595  to qualifying parties [}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 including parties or (perhaps) Independents i}{
\fs24\insrsid13396401\charrsid12146595 n coalition with the Government]}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
The thrust of the submission is that section 99 should be addressed in a linear fashion (}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 cf }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 2003 Supreme Court }{\fs24\insrsid8589918\charrsid12146595 Judgment}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  at [116]), with subsection}{\fs24\insrsid8589918\charrsid12146595 s}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
 (3) and (4) stating in general terms the primary obligations of establishing a multi-party Cabinet and the remaining subsections spelling out the content of those obligations.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 So much is common ground. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 47.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 But Mr Chaudhry\rquote 
s second argument sees subsection (6) as ensuring that, if the Prime Minister wishes to appoint a person from other than a qualifying party (for example, as part of a coalition agreement with a party that is not a qualifying party),
 he or she is able to do so, but only at the cost of one of the }{\fs24\insrsid12213291\charrsid12146595 positions}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
that would have been allocated to the Prime Minister's own party.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 To allocate }{\fs24\insrsid12213291\charrsid12146595 cabinet positions}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  to non-qualifying parties except under the regime of subsection (6) and the following subsections would contradict this understanding of the whole provision.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Similarly, subsections (7) and (8) are to be viewed as part of the working out of subsection (5) viewed (as Mr Chaudhry would have it) as the necessary trigger for the entire process o
f Cabinet selection, not just the process for dealing with qualifying parties apart from the Prime Minister\rquote s own party.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
Mr Chaudhry points to the concluding words in subsection (7), which infer that the Prime Minister\rquote s party has an entitlement }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 under subsection (5)}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 .
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 48.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Mr Chaudhry's next argument invokes section 64 of the Constitution as interpreted by this Court in its 1999 and 2002 Opinions.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
The parallels between the section 64(2) and section 99(5) are said to be so close that the Court would be sanc
tioning inconsistency within the Constitution as well is departing from its earlier Opinions if it were to accept the Prime Minister's approach to section 99(5).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid12146595\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 49.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 A proper understanding of this submission, and the Prime Minister\rquote s response to it, requires analysis of the 1}{\fs24\insrsid8589918\charrsid12146595 999 and 2002 }{\fs24\insrsid12213291\charrsid12146595 
Supreme Court }{\fs24\insrsid8589918\charrsid12146595 Opinions.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 

\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
Section 64(2) and the 1999 and 2002 Supreme Court Opinions
\par }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 50.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx720\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Section 64 provides:
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12146595 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 64(1)}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 The Senate consists of 32 members, of whom: 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12146595 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 (a)\tab 
14 are appointed by the President on the advice of the Bose Levu Vakaturaga;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 (b)\tab 9 are appointed by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 (c)\tab 8 are appointed by the President on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition; and

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 (d)\tab 1 is appointed by the President on the advice of the Council of Rotuma.
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12146595 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 (2)\tab 
The leaders of each of the parties entitled to be invited to participate in the Cabinet under section 99 nominate a person or persons for appointment under paragraph (1)(c) and, in tenderin
g advice to the President pursuant to that paragraph, the Leader of the Opposition must ensure that the 8 persons proposed for appointment comprise such number of nominees of those parties as is proportionate to the size of the membership of those parties
 in the House of Representatives.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 (3)\tab 
If, at the time when an appointment is, or appointments are, to be made to the Senate under this section, the position of Leader of the Opposition is vacant, the Prime Minister must adopt the role of the Leader of the 
Opposition under subsection (2) in tendering advice to the President as to the 8 persons proposed for appointment under paragraph 1(c).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid8588365\charrsid12146595 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 (4)\tab 
A person is not eligible to be appointed as a member of the Senate unless he or she is eligible to be a candidate in elections to the House of Representatives. 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 

\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 51.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
Mr Chaudhry submits that section 64(2) uses language equivalent to section 99(5) in providing that }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
the 8 persons proposed for appointment comprise such number of nominees of those [entitled] parties as is proportionate to the size of the membership of those parties in the House of Representatives}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595 "}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  (emphasis added).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 52.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
Mr Chaudhry further submits that the similarity of the language used in section 64(2) and in section 99(5) means that the same approach should be applied to each provision in calculating the numbers of Senate and Cabinet }{
\fs24\insrsid12213291\charrsid12146595 positions}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 . The only exception is that the Prime Minister's appointed }{\fs24\insrsid12213291\charrsid12146595 Senators}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
 are not counted under section 64(2) but his party\rquote s seats are counted (to the exclusion of non-qualifying parties and Independents) for the purposes of section 99(5) (assuming of course that the Prime Minister\rquote s party passes the 10}{
\fs24\insrsid8589918\charrsid12146595 %}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  threshold).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 53.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 According to Mr Chaudhry, there is no textual or other reason to exclude the Prime Minister's own party\rquote s seats from the apportionment calculation required by section 99(5).}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Unlike in s}{\fs24\insrsid8589918\charrsid12146595 ection }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 64, there is no separate allocation in section 99 }{
\fs24\insrsid12213291\charrsid12146595 of}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Cabinet }{\fs24\insrsid12213291\charrsid12146595 positions}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
 to the Prime Minister's own party.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
In any event, if the Prime Minister's own party were excluded from the calculation required by section 99 (5), and the proportion were taken against the total number of }{\fs24\insrsid12213291\charrsid12146595 positions}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  in the House of Representatives minus those held by the Prime Minister's own party, }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
 would actually be entitled to an even larger number of seats than it presently claims.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 This of course is true, although it offers no ready explanation why Independen
ts are excluded altogether from both Cabinet and the apportionment calculation (a conceded corollary of Mr Chaudhry\rquote s submission). 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14373254\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 54.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Each interested party in the present Reference sought to draw comfort from the reasoning of this Court in its 1999 and 
2002 Opinions each of which were References concerning the meaning and application of section 64(2).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid2369433\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 55.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 The 1999 }{\fs24\insrsid12213291\charrsid12146595 Reference}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  arose out of the 1999 general election which initially produced a House of 70 members.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  held 37 seats and its leader, Mr Chaudhry, became Prime Minister.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{
\fs24\insrsid8589918\charrsid12146595 Two other parties passed the 10%}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
 threshold that made them qualifying parties within section 99(5) with the consequence that their leaders were entitled to make Senate nominations in accordance with section 64(2).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Those parties were the Fiji}{\fs24\insrsid15346568\charrsid12146595 an}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  Association Party }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 (FAP) }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 with 11 seats and}{\fs24\insrsid15346568\charrsid12146595  the}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Soqosoqo ni Vakavulewa ni Taukei}{
\fs24\insrsid15346568\charrsid12146595  Party}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 (SVT)}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595  with 7 seats.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 56.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 The underlying dispute concerned the composition of the pool of nominees for the eight Senate positions to be appointed by the President on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition [}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 cf}{\fs24\insrsid15346568\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 section 64(1}{\fs24\insrsid6501925\charrsid12146595 ) (}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 c)].}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 57.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 The Supreme Court rejected the sharply divergent submissions on behalf of each of the then Prime Minister and the }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 SVT.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 As will become clear, the reasons for rejection of each submission assume significance in the present Reference.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 58.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 The then Prime Minister (Mr Chaudhry) had submitted that the 8 Senators to be appointed by the President on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition sho
uld include, on the Prime Minister's advice, four persons nominated by the Prime Minister's own party.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
As the Court pointed out, the thesis of this argument was that, reading subsections 64 and 99 together, if the Prime Minister's party has at least 10% of
 the total membership of the House of Representatives, it is entitled to a proportionate representation in the Senate which will be additional to the nine members to be appointed on the advice of the Prime Minister under section 64(1}{
\fs24\insrsid6501925\charrsid12146595 ) (}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 b).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid12477518\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 59.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 The Court's
 reasons for rejecting this submission included reference to the terms and structure of section 64(1), with its reference to 9 senators being appointed on the advice of the Prime Minister [para (b)] and to 8 appointed on the advice of}{
\fs24\insrsid8589918\charrsid12146595  the Leader of the Opposition [}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 para (c)].}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
This aspect of power-sharing was found to be incompatible with the Prime Minister's contention that he could have, in effect, a second bite at the cherry when tendering advice to the President referable to the Leader of the Opposition's 8 appointees. 

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 60.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 Senior counsel for the Prime Minister in the present Reference correctly observed that this feature of section 64(1) is not involved in section 99.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 However, the Court did not base the entirety of its reasoning upon the terms of subsection}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 (1) of section 64.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12146595  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12146595 The Court also said this (emphasis added):
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146595 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11759899 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 One last observation should be made about the pattern [of sharing and limitations].}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
It is assumed by section 99 that the Prime Minister has a party: see subsections (6), (7), (8) and (9).}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 The Constitution does not actually so require.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 It is enough that he or she be a member of the Houses of Representatives.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
But the Constitution has been drawn up with an eye to political realities and likelihoods.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 The construction to be placed on it in accor
dance with its spirit should not be dominated or heavily influenced by the possibility of circumstances which the framers may have dismissed as highly improbable.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
The ordinary and appropriate inference from sections 99(6) to (9) inclusive is that in the other provisions of these two linked sections (section 64 and 99) a reference to parties does not include the Prime Minister\rquote s own party.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 His own party is within the scope of a provision only when expressly brought in by the terms of that provision.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10320552 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11759899 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 Once th
e spirit, object and pattern of the provisions are considered together with the words that have to be interpreted, the true meaning becomes clear enough.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
The crucial words are }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 parties to be invited to participate in the Cabinet under section 99}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 , which are to be found in section 64(2), and }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
the Prime Minister must invite all parties whose membership in the House of Representatives comprises at least 10% of the total membership of the House}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
, which are to be found in section 99(5).}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 Although it is not imposs
ible to speak of a Prime Minister as inviting his own party to participate in his Cabinet, that would be in the political context a somewhat unusual mode of expression.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 It would be more natural and normal to speak, as we think section 99 does, of the Prime Minister as establishing (or forming) his Cabinet and inviting representatives of other parties to join it.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 The provisions about inviting are capable, if only just capable, of more than one meaning.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 But to treat them as allowing the Prime Minister to invite his or her own party would distort the pattern and assign to the Prime Minister a share of power greater than is to be expected in this Constitution.

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10320552 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid13129077\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11759899 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
The Court is satisfied that the concept of power sharing in the Constitution requires invitations to the Cabinet, and consequently in effect to the Senate, to be issued to parties with at least 10% of House membership, other than the Prime Minister
\rquote s own party.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 His own party is protected by his rights to establish his Cabinet (subject always to the princip
les in section 99) and to secure 9 Senate appointments.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid6501925 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid6501925 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11759899 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11759899\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 61.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10320552 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 
This conclusion as to the scope of section 99(5), reaffirmed in the 2002 Opinion and the 2003 Supreme Court Judgment, is a key plank in the Prime Minister\rquote s submissions in the present Reference.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10320552  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 Mr Chaudhry\rquote s answer, which we accept, is that to exclude the Prime Minister\rquote 
s party from the pool of qualifying parties mentioned at the start of subsection (5) does not preclude a limiting entitlement of the Prime Minister\rquote s party having regard to the totality of section 99. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10320552 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 62.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10320552 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 Returning to the 1999 proceedings, }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 SVT\rquote s}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 
 preferred interpretation of the concluding words in section 64(2) was that the Leader of the Opposition (then the leader of }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 SVT}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 
) was entitled to nominate all 8 Senate appointees under section 64 (1) (c) from his own party or according to his discretion.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10320552  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 
As this Court pointed out, this was on the theory that, as applied to the circumstances then prevailing, the }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 SVT }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 party\rquote 
s members were at least 10% of the total membership of the House, and that accordingly }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 SVT}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552  was entitled to a corresponding proportion of the Cabinet }{
\fs24\insrsid15346568\charrsid10320552 position}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 s.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10320552  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 Further, the argument went, after the words }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10320552 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 all parties}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10320552 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552  in section 99(5) there should be read in an exception }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10320552 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 apart from the Prime Minister's party and the party (if any) with which it is in coalition}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10320552 "}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10320552  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 The significance of this submission was that}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552  SVT\rquote s}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552  interpretation would have excluded }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 FAP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552  from any right to }{\fs24\insrsid15346568\charrsid10320552 position}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 s in either the Senate or the Cabinet because }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 FAP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552  was part of a coalition government with }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 
FLP}{\fs24\insrsid16191829\charrsid10320552 .}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552  This argument was also rejected by the Court in its 1999 Opinion.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10320552  }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 FAP}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552  was entitled to nominate for appointment under section 64(1}{\fs24\insrsid10320552\charrsid10320552 ) (}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10320552 c) even if it was going into coalition with the Prime Minister\rquote 
s party.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10320552 {\fs24\insrsid1402330\charrsid10320552 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid11097720 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 63.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11097720 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11097720 Immediately after the passage quoted above, the Court said (emphasis added):
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11097720 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\kerning28\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\kerning0\langnp2057\insrsid11097720\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5665043 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5665043 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5665043 Invitations are to be issued across the political lines.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5665043  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5665043 
There is insufficient reason for excluding from the required invitations a coalition party such as FAP.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5665043  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5665043 
Applying this interpretation, the result if appointments were made according to current membership of the House of Representatives would be that the Senate would consist of}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid16191829\charrsid5665043  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5665043 -
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5665043 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13129077\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid5665043 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5665043 
14 Senators appointed by the President on the advice of the Bose Levu Vakaturaga; 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5665043 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid5665043\charrsid5665043 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid5665043 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5665043 9 appointed by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister; 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5665043 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5665043 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid5665043 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5665043 
8 appointed by the President on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition, of which FAP may nominate 5 and SVT 3; 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5665043 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5665043 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid5665043 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5665043 1 appointed by the President on the advice of the Council of Rotuma.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5665043 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5665043 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5665043 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5665043 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5665043 
Most of this passage was repeated, with similar added emphasis, in the 2002 Supreme Court Opinion (see below).
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5665043 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10166991 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 64.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10166991 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10166991 In consequence of this reasoning, the Court in its forma
l answer to the Question referred in 1999 held that the phrase }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 each of the parties entitled to be invited to participate in Cabinet under section 99}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10166991  in section 64(2) meant: 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10166991 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid333946 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid333946 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 every party, excluding the Prime Minister\rquote s own party (but not excluding any party in coalition with the Prime Minister\rquote 
s own party) whose membership in the House of Representatives comprises at least 10% of the total membership of the House;}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid333946 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid333946 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 65.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid333946 
\fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 The 2002 proceedings were a Reference concerning the President\rquote s appointment of members of the Senate following the 2001 general election.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid333946  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 As indicated, the election had produced a House in which }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 SDL}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946  held 32 seats, and }{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946  held 28 seats.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid333946  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 The remaining seats were distributed between minor parties and Independents none 
of whom was a qualifying party in the sense referred to in section 99(5), with the consequence that none of the leaders of those minor parties was entitled to make a nomination pursuant to section 64(2).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid333946 {\fs24\insrsid285128\charrsid333946 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 66.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid333946 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 
The dispute underlying the 2002 Reference was identification of the parties entitled to propose persons for appointment to the Senate on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition in a context where the Leader of the Opposition represented a party with on
ly one seat in the House and where there was only one party eligible to be invited to participate in the Cabinet in accordance with section 99(5) as interpreted in the 1999 Supreme Court Opinion (ie }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 FLP}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 ).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid333946  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 The Leader of the Opposition represented the National Federation Party }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 (NFP),}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946  a party that had secured only one seat in the House.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid333946  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 The only qualifying party was }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 FLP}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 , led by Mr Chaudhry.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid333946  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 Mr Chaudhry contended that }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 
 was entitled to all 8 of the nominations which the President on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition was to appoint under section 64(1}{\fs24\insrsid333946\charrsid333946 ) (}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 c).}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid333946  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 The Leader of the Opposition claimed the right to advise the President to appoint 4 FLP members and 1 each from minor parties including his own.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid333946 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 67.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid333946 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 This Court held that }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946  was correct and that }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946  
was entitled to all of the 8 nominations.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid333946  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 The Question referred asked:
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid333946 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid333946 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 
Where as in this case, only one party was entitled under the requirements of section 99(5) to be considered by the Leader of the Opposition in determining his nominations to the President under section 64(2) of the Constitution:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid333946 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid333946 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 (a)\tab 
Is that party entitled to all eight of the nominations which the Leader of the Opposition is required to submit to the President under section 64 (1) (c)?}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid333946  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 or,
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid333946 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid12477518\charrsid333946 
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid333946 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 (b)\tab Is that 'entitled party' entitled only to 
the number of nominees which equates to its size in the House of Representatives?
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid333946 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1402330\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid333946 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 The Court (by majority) answered (a) }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid333946 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 Yes}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid333946 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 and (b) }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid333946 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 No}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid9459067\charrsid333946 .}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid333946 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid333946 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6497534\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 68.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 It needs to be pointed out tha
t the 2002 Reference related to section 64 and in a context where there was neither dispute nor relevance in disputing that any party}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 other}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 than}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 had}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 rights}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 of}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 
nomination}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 under}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 subs}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 (2)}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 thereof.The matter in issue was whether the Leader of the Opposition was bound by }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 FLP
\rquote s}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955  nominations in the }{\fs24\insrsid9459067\charrsid7932955 particular }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 circumstances.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 {\fs24\insrsid6497534\charrsid7932955 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 69.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 The argument invoked by the Leader of the Opposition was that the concluding words of subsection (2) only address the situation where two or more qualifying parties (not being the Prime Minister's party: }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 see}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955  the 1999 Supreme Court Opinion) wish to have their nominees included in the list of 8.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 
The concluding words of subsection}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 (2) do not directly address the situation where there is only a single qualifying party.}{\fs24\insrsid14370346 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 {\fs24\insrsid7932955\charrsid7932955 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 70.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 
This dispute did not throw up any issue about identifying the denominator of the proportion that would have to apply under the concluding words of subsection (2) if there were two or more qualifying parties each propos
ing names for the Leader of the Opposition\rquote s list of 8 appointees.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 71.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 Early in its reasons, the Court referred to the }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 critical finding}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667 "}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955  of the 1999 Opinion to the effect that:
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13129077\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7932955 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 The ordinary and appropriate inference from sections 99(6) to (9) inclusive
 is that in the other provisions of these two linked sections (subsections 64 and 99) a reference to parties does not include the Prime Minister's own party.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 
His own party is within the scope of a provision only when expressly brought in by the terms of that provision.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2369433\charrsid1195131 

\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 72.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 The Court observed that no party to the 2002 }{
\fs24\insrsid16191829\charrsid7932955 reference}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955  suggested that the Court should revisit this conclusion.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 
It therefore followed that the only qualifying party following the 2001 general election was }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 Proceeding from this standpoint, the Court then moved to the interpretation of section 64.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 {\fs24\insrsid8798198\charrsid7932955 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 73.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 In addressing the unique problem of a single non-government qualifying party in the context of section 64(2), the Court nevertheless looked first to the situation applic}{\fs24\insrsid7932955 able if there was }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 more than one such party.}{\fs24\insrsid1966117\charrsid7932955 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 {\fs24\insrsid7932955 
\par }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 The Court said:
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10957340\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7932955 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 Where there is more than one qualified party, the solution is fairly plain.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 
First, and critically, ' those parties' means qualified parties\'85.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 The second significant matter is the effect of the concluding words of section 64(2)\'85.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 The Attorney General submitted that the proportion referred to was the proportion the size of the party bore to the total number of seats in the House.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 For the reasons we will give, we do not agree with that construction.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 
The first point to note is that the words are not 'shall comprise such number of nominees as is equal to the proportion the number of seats held by each party bears to the number of seats in the House'.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 We consider that the proportion to which the subsection refers is the proportion of the size of one qualified party bears to another or others.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7932955 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7932955 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7932955 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 74.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
It is clear this was the view of the Supreme Court in the }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 1999 Supreme Court Opinion.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
After reaching its principal conclusion, the Court continued:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 
Applying this interpretation, the result if appointments were made according to current membership of the House of Representatives would be that the Senate would consist of 14 Senators appoint
ed by the President on the advice of the Bose Levu Vakaturaga; 9 appointed by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister; 8 appointed by the President on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition, of which FAP may nominate 5 and SVT 3; 1 appointed
 by the President on the advice of the Council of Rotuma.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\i\fs24\insrsid2369433\charrsid10096270 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 [The emphasis was added in the 2002 Opinion.]
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\i\fs24\insrsid2369433\charrsid10096270 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 At the relevant time in 1999, the FAP held 11 of 70 seats, or 15.7% while the SVT held 7 (10%).}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 If (in accordance with the view on which the Leader of 
the Opposition acted in 2001) qualified parties were allocated the number of places that was equivalent to the percentage of their seats in the House, the FAP would have received 15.7% of 8, or 1 when taken to the nearest whole number, however the Court c
onsidered the FAP was entitled to 5 places, and the SVT 3.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 
The arithmetic is fairly plain: the proportion of 5 to 3 is equivalent (to the nearest whole numbers) of the proportion 1 5.7:10.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 
So the Court must have considered that the 8 places were to be apportioned between the two qualified parties in accordance with the proportion the size of their respective memberships in the House bore to one another.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid2369433\charrsid9768667 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 In this respect counsel for the President invited us to revisit the 1999 Supreme Court Opinion.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 However, we do not entertain any doubts regarding its correctness.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 
A central feature of the scheme of sections 64 and 99 is the concept of }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 qualified parties}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 .}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 Those not attaining the 10% threshold are not entitled to be invited to join Cabinet (section 99) or to h
ave their leader nominate persons for the Senate.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 In these respects they are treated as if they did not obtain any seats at all.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 Yet the Attorney General\rquote s argument involves giving them the opportunity of filling a number of Senate places.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 The number of places may even be more (collectively) than those reserved for the entitled parties.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 
If the 1999 election result is taken as an example, on the Attorney General\rquote s argument the two most successful parties, the FAP and SVT would be allocated 1 seat each, while
 the less successful parties, or persons unconnected with any party represented in the House, would be allocated 6 seats between them.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 
That may be described as power sharing, but it seems power sharing carried to absurdity.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 The fruits of failure become gre
ater than those of success; the parties which successfully negotiated the 10% hurdle obtain 2 seats in total, while those who were unsuccessful, or others, share 6.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 
When this difficulty was raised in argument, the Attorney General suggested the remaining places might simply be left vacant; but that would be directly contrary to the legislative direction, that the Leader of the Opposition is to forward 8 nominations.}
{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 The fact is that if the two qualified parties were allocated one place each, as the view tak
en by the Leader of the Opposition would seem to require, the Constitution gives no guidance how to deal with the remaining 6 places.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 75.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx720\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 In this Court, Mr Chaudhry placed particular reliance upon this passage.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 He submitted that the repeated statements t
o the effect that the proportion to which section 64(2) refers is the proportion the size of one qualifying party bears to another or others represents an authoritative exposition of the concluding words in section 99(5).}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 He also submitted that the problem exposed in the final sentence of the passage quoted is the same as that inherent in the Prime Minister\rquote 
s approach to section 99, ie it is one that necessarily construes section 99 as giving no guidance as to the allocation of all Cabinet positions.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 We do not agree.
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1195131 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\kerning28\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\kerning0\langnp2057\insrsid15029630\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 76.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 
\fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 The opening portion of section 64(2) effectively incorporates so much of }{\fs24\insrsid15029630\charrsid10096270 the }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
opening portion of section 99(5) as is necessary to identify what we would described as }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 qualifying parties}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 other than the Government party.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
It is the closing portions of the respective subsections that speak about proportionality.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
The construction of section 99(5) must be approached, at the outset, by reference to the words of that subsection and not by reference to the words of section 64(2).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
In the event, as appears later in these reasons, there is a consistency between the two subsections which emerges from the preferred construction of section 99(5).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid16672041\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 77.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid16672041\charrsid10096270 T}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 he concluding portion of section 64(2) closely circumscribes }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 (}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 must ensure}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 )}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270  the func
tion of the Leader of the Opposition in advising the President as to the 8 appointees referred to in section 64(1)(c).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
The subsection makes it plain that the 8 positions must come only from the nominees of }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 those [qualifying] parties}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270 "}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270  and that, if there is more than one such party, the 8 positions are to be shared between those parties in proportion to the size of their membership in the House.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 A finite pool of Senate positions is to be divided amongst members of qualifying parties to the exclusion of all others.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
The logic of this imperative emerged in the 2002 Supreme Court Opinion which held that, if there was only one such party, it was entitled to all of the }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 spoils}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid10957340\charrsid10096270 .}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270  The 1999 Supreme Court Opinion also explains why the interests of the Prime Minister's 
party are entirely excluded from the processes of section 64(1)(c) and (2).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 78.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 We return to the reasoning in the 2002 Supreme Court Opinion.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
After the passage set out above, the Court turned to address the more difficult application of the latter portion of section 64(2) where there is only one qualifying party.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
The Court pointed out the impossibility of determining proportionality where there is only one qualifying party.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
This led the Court to an extended discussion as to the workability of the approach to section 64(2) being urged by the Leader of the Opposition in the 2002 Reference.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
This discussion concluded in the following terms:
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6497534\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10096270 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 To the extent that the view taken by the Leader of the Opposition was based on the concept of power sharing of course it
 had solid support from the 1999 Supreme Court Opinion and the Constitution itself, a point well made by the Attorney General. Earlier we noted section 6(l), with its reference to the equitable sharing of political power.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 That however is a general provision and in section 64 we are concerned with a provision specifically addressed to the issue of Senate appointments.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 Further, as this Court pointed out in the 1999 Supreme Court Opinion (at 8) a provision such as section 6 (l) must be given particular weight 
in resolving any ambiguity, or deciding which of a number of possible interpretations may be adopted.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
However, the concept of power sharing does not exist in a vacuum, it must be seen in, and where necessary to give way to, the context and specific terms of the Constitution.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 The first task must always be to construe the actual words of the statute.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
As the 1999 Opinion noted, throughout the Constitution those empowered are also subject to limitations.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
In terms of section 99, and the flow-on effect of that section to section 64, power sharing does not extend to parties which do not attain the 10% threshold.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
That threshold is fundamental to the workings of those provisions, and outweighs any implication that might be based on more general considerations, such as power sharing.}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 However the issue is approached the only rational reading of subsection (2), in our opinion, is that where there is but a single qualified party, it is entitled to the full 8 nominations.}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3808263\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 79.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
Mr Williams, leading counsel for Mr Chaudhry, submitted that this was a crucial passage clearly supporting his client\rquote s interpretation of section 99(5).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
Once again, we disagree in light of the context of the passage where the references to section 99 are either general or }{\fs24\insrsid16347138\charrsid10096270 concerned }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
with the function of identifying qualifying parties (not being the Prime Minister's party) entitled to make nominations under section 64(2).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 80.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 Before leaving the 2002 Opinion we would point out that it recognised that the language of subsection}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
(5), which assumed that there would always be more than one qualifying party, was capable of producing an absurd and unjust result if it was not also applied to a single qualifying party.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 This possible electoral outcome was overlooked by the drafter, but the omission was not allowed to undermine a fair, workable outcome based upon a reading of the Constitution as a whole.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 [}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10837851 cf }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 Constitution, section 3(a)].}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 Similar reasoning reinforces our conclusion as to the eligibility of Independents for appointment to Cabinet.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\b\fs24\insrsid1402330\charrsid10096270 
\par }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 The Position of Independents and Senators
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 

\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 81.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
It is necessary to address the position of Independents in the scheme of section 99.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 Their eligibility or ineligibility }{\fs24\insrsid16347138\charrsid10096270 for}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270  appointment to Cabinet has a bearing on the issues in this Reference, for reasons set out below.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 82.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 Section 99(2) states that a Minister must be a member of the House of Representative or the Senate to be eligible for appointment.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
This is the only provision addressing eligibility.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 It does not in terms state that every member of Parliament is eligible.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 But, supported by the reasons set out below, we would give it that construction.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid2369433\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 83.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 There is no requirement that a candidate for appointment to the Senate or election to the House of Representatives must be a member of a political party.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 The election of Independents has always been an aspect of political life in this and other democracies.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 84.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 The Constitution assumes, but does not require, that the Prime Minister has a party (a point recognised in the 1999 Supreme Court Opinion: see }{\fs24\insrsid10957340\charrsid10096270 above}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 ).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 It has been the practice for Cabinets appointed under this and previous Fijian Constitutions to in
clude non-party members drawn from either House.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 85.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 The need to be able to do this may stem from the appropriateness of choosing a non-aligned member of the Parliament because he and she alone has the skills necessary to fill a specialist portfolio.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 Alternatively, we could envisage that this might become necessary to enable a Prime Minister to form a stable government.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 86.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 History, good government, the language of subsection (2) and its primacy of position within section 99 all support the conclusion th
at the pool of candidates available for appointment to Cabinet by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister is not confined to members of parties.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 87.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 Section 99(5) enacts the }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid9768667 constitutional threshold}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid9768667 "}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270  contemplated by the JPSC that recommended changes to the earlier scheme of a multi-party Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 But subs}{
\fs24\insrsid10957340\charrsid10096270 ection}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270  (6) recognises the Prime Minister\rquote s capacity to appoint from parties with less than 10% of the total membership of the House of Representatives.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 88.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 The language of subsections (4) to (9) does not recognise the possibility of Independents being members of a multi-party Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
It appears to assume that the multi-party Cabinet referred to in subsection (3) is drawn exclusively from members of parties.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid13129077\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 89.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 Nevertheless, it is, in our view, impossible to conclude that the drafters of the Constitution intended by their choice of language to exclude Independents}{\fs24\insrsid16347138\charrsid10096270  and Senators}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 Subsection (2) is silent as to such a badge of ineligibility.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 There could be circumstances when Cabinet\endash formation became effectively impossible if an Independent Prime Minister or Independent Minister were excluded automatically.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }
{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 90.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 Subsection (6) would be satisfied in word and spirit by the appointment to Cabinet of the single member of a }{\fs24\insrsid16347138\charrsid10096270 political }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 party who wa
s elected to the House}{\fs24\insrsid16347138\charrsid10096270  of Representatives}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
It makes no sense to exclude (single) Independents.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 91.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 During argument in the Reference, counsel were asked about the Prime Minister\rquote s capacity to appoint Independents to Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
Mr Williams submitted that the matter was not raised by the Questions referred, but he recognised that his approach to section 99 left no room for the appointment of Independents.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 Mr Gageler SC submitted to the contrary, and drew attention to the passing reference in the 2003 Supreme Court }{\fs24\insrsid10957340\charrsid10096270 Judgment}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
 (at [26]) to the appointment of Independents in the current Cabinet.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 92.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 In our view, the Prime Minister is free to appoint Independents to Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 This is not excluded by subsection}{
\fs24\insrsid10957340\charrsid10096270 s}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270  (4) to (9).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 Whether these subsections have the practical 
effect of limiting the numbers of Independents that the Prime Minister is free to appoint is another matter entirely, to which we shall return.
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 

\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 Analysis
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16519195\charrsid1195131 

\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 93.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
The excursion to the 1999 and 2002 Supreme Court Opinions was necessary}{\fs24\insrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 to understand the arguments presented about section 64.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid16519195\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 94.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 It is now possible to address the central issues.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 95.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 There are significant difficulties with each position advanced by the Interested Parties in this Reference.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 96.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx450\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 The problems with Mr Chaudhry\rquote s approach are:
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8588365\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10096270 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \bullet \tab 
it strains the natural meaning of subsection (5) by effectively adding words that are not in the text;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid2369433\charrsid10096270 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \bullet \tab 
it deals with Independents either by excluding them as eligible appointees to Cabinet or (by some means not based on the text) 
excluding them from the apportionment exercise that spans out from the concluding words of subsection (5) and the subsections that follow;}{\fs24\insrsid2978897\charrsid10096270 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid2369433\charrsid10096270 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \bullet \tab it entails the possibility of a Cabinet dominated numerically by partie
s hostile to the Government, with the consequence that the Cabinet (or government) would not have the confidence of the House,}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 contrary to section 97.
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14373254\charrsid1195131 

\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 97.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx900\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 The problems with the Prime Minister\rquote 
s approach are:
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2369433\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10096270 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \bullet \tab 
it renders subsection (6) tautologous, because even if (as Mr Gageler submits) it operates proleptically for the purpose of subsection (7), there is no need for it in light of the fact that the Prime Minister\rquote 
s approach to section 99 as a whole leaves him free to allocate all Cabinet positions except those offered to qualifying parties in proportion to their numbers in the House as a percentage of the total membership of the House;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid13129077\charrsid10096270 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10096270 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 \bullet \tab it ignores the reference in subsection (7) to }{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270 "}
{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 respective entitlements under subsection (5)}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270  that suggests that the Prime Minister\rquote 
s party has an entitlement under subsection 5.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid10096270  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid10096270 
It is a strained use of language to view a right to fill all positions except those offered to qualifying parties as such an entitlement.
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10096270 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16519195\charrsid1195131 

\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 98.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5324462 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 Section 99(4) states the general principle that }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 the composition of the Cabinet should, as far as possible, fairly represent the parties represented in the House of Representatives}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 
That principle is subject to the provisions within the section that allow for the possibility that one or more parties invited to participate in the Cabinet will decline the invitation.}{\fs24\insrsid16347138\charrsid5324462 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5324462 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 99.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5324462 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 Section 99(4) is, in a sense, declaratory of the object of the provisions of section 99.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 
Importantly it also provides an interpretive principle which informs the construction of the secti
on. A construction which is likely to produce a patently unfair result having regard to the history, context, purposes and spirit of the Constitution, is unlikely to be correct. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5324462 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 100.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5324462 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 Section 99(5) imposes an obligation on the Prime Minister, the content of which is defined by that subsection and qualified by the subsections which follow.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 In broad, the obligation is to issue an invitation to qualifying non-government political parties in the House of Representatives to be represented in the Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 The class of parties to whom that invitation is to be issued is }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 
parties whose membership in the House of Representatives comprises at least 10% of the total membership of the House}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 .}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 In so defining the class of parties to be invited, the subsection gives definition to the Prime Minister\rquote s obligation.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 
It also confers upon the qualifying non-government parties a correlative right to be invited.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 That right is discussed in previous Opinions of this Court, most notably the 2003 
}{\fs24\insrsid10957340\charrsid5324462 Supreme Court Judgment}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 . 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5324462 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 101.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5324462 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 The content of the invitation which the Prime Minister is required to extend to such parties is }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 
to be represented in the Cabinet in proportion to their numbers in the House}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 
The ordinary and natural meaning of the words and their evident purpose does not require
 the Prime Minister to undertake the formality of issuing an invitation to his or her own party. The section requires the Prime Minister to offer qualifying non-government parties a level of representation in the Cabinet which is }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 in proportion to their numbers in the House}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 .}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 Although expressed by reference to the content of the invitation from the Prime Minister to qualifying parties other than his or her own, the term }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 in proportion to their numbers in the House}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 
 also defines the number of places in the Cabinet to which each qualifying party is entitled.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 
Section 99(5) therefore confers upon qualifying parties an entitlement to be represented in the Cabinet in proportion to their numbers in the House.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 
The first question referred by the President is essentially about the nature of that entitlement.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5324462 {\fs24\insrsid2369433\charrsid5324462 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 102.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx900\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5324462 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 The term }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 proportion}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 
 used here has a relevant ordinary English meaning.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5324462  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5324462 It is:}{\fs24\insrsid2439168\charrsid5324462 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5324462 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\kerning28\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\kerning0\langnp2057\insrsid2369433\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5248163 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
A relationship of equivalence between two pairs of quantities such that the first bears the same relation to the second as the third does to the fourth.
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5248163 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 New Shorter Oxford English Dictionary

\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3808263\charrsid1195131 

\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 103.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
So, if one qualifying party has 20 seats in the House of Representatives and another has 10 seats their respective entitlements in Cabinet would be such that the first party would have twice the number of places as the second party.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 If the number of places allocated to the 10-seat party is }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 n}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163  then the number of places allocated to the 20-seat party must be }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 2n}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 The ratio of places to seats in Pa
rliament is then the same for each of these qualifying parties.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 On that basis the number of their places in Cabinet would be }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid8027998 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid8027998 in proportion to their numbers in the House}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid8027998 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid8027998 .
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid8027998 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 104.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 Divorced from its context and literally construed, section 99(5}{\fs24\insrsid16347138\charrsid5248163 ) places no limit on the number of positions}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163  to which the Prime Minister
\rquote s party is entitled in Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 It simply defines the relationship between the entitlements of other qualifying parties.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 If that were the correct interpretation and there were two qualifying parties, other than the }{\fs24\insrsid10957340\charrsid5248163 Prime Minister\rquote s}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
 party, and one had twice as many seats in the House of Representatives as the other, then the requirements of the section could be met by giving the larger of the parties two }{\fs24\insrsid5141194\charrsid5248163 (2) }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 places in a Cabinet and the smaller of them one}{\fs24\insrsid5141194\charrsid5248163  (1)}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163  place regardless of the overall size of the Cabinet.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 So in a 71 seat Parliament where the Government party has 40 seats and the qualifying non-government parties 20 and 10 seats respectively, a 20 member 
Cabinet could be formed comprising 17 }{\fs24\insrsid10957340\charrsid5248163 places}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163  for the Government, with 2 and 1 }{\fs24\insrsid10957340\charrsid5248163 place}{\fs24\insrsid4278564\charrsid5248163 s}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163  respectively for the other qualifying parties. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 105.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 The problem that immediately emerges is one of }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 fairness}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 .}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 The literal construction of section 99(5) does not, on any
 view, accord with the principle in section 99(4) which requires that the composition of the Cabinet, }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 as far as possible, fairly represent the parties }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid5141194\charrsid11294437 represented }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 in the House of Representatives}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid5141194\charrsid11294437 .}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 Moreover, on the literal interpretation the subsection has no operation where there is one qualifying party other than the Government party.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 In that case, on the literal interpretation, no }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 proportion}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163  could be calculated.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
It is not lightly to be supposed that the drafters of section 99(5) intended that the Prime Minister could be excused from the obligation to form a multi-party Cabinet in the case that there was only one qualifying non-government party (}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 cf}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 the 2002 Supreme Court Opinion).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 106.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 Having regard to the context in which the Constitution was drafted and the centrality to it of the idea of }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 power sharing}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 ,}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163  it would be against the spirit of the Constitution so to construe it (section 3).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 It would also not appear to accord with the principles in the Compact related to the }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 equitable sharing of political p
ower amongst all communities in the Fiji Islands}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid5141194\charrsid11294437  }{\fs24\insrsid5141194\charrsid5248163 [section 6(}{\fs24\insrsid16672041\charrsid5248163 l}{
\fs24\insrsid5141194\charrsid5248163 )]}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
In the context in which the Constitution was drafted that is connected to the sharing of power between political parties whose composition then, as now, was broadly, although not precisely, reflective of those differing communities.}{
\fs24\insrsid2439168\charrsid5248163 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {\fs24\insrsid2439168\charrsid5248163 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 107.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 It is necessary therefore to posit an entitlement in the Prime Minister\rquote s or Government party against which, as a matter of practicality, the entitlement of a qualifying non-government party can be calculated.}
{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 That entitlement must also reflect a principle of fairness which does not permit the Prime Minister to limit the numbe
r of places in Cabinet offered to qualifying non-government parties to a derisory reflection of their representation in the House of Representatives.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 108.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 The proposition that section 99(5) implies or assumes a limit on the proportion of Cabinet places to be held by the Prime Minister\rquote s party is supported by the language of the subsections that follow. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 109.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 Subsection 99(6) provides that if the Prime Minister appoints to the Cabinet a person from a non-eligible party the selection is deemed }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 for the purposes of this section to be a selection of a person from the Prime Minister\rquote s own party}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 .}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 The }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 purposes}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163  of section 99 can be identified by reference to subsections 99(3) and (4).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
They are the establishment of a multi-party Cabinet whose composition fairly represents the parties represented in the House of Representatives.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
Section 99(6) assumes the application of the fairness principle to limit the entitlement of the Prime Minister\rquote s party in the Cabinet relative to other }{\fs24\insrsid8936162\charrsid5248163 qualifying }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
parties and to maintain the application of that fairness principle in the event that the Prime Minister appoints to Cabinet allies from non-qualifying parties, }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 eg}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
 small coalition parties. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 110.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 Subsection 99(7) makes explicit the assumption that the Prime Minister\rquote s party has an entitlement to representation in the Cabinet which is to be found by reference to subsection 99(5).}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 It seeks to maintain the fairness principle in}{\fs24\insrsid4278564\charrsid5248163  the}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 alloc
ation of Cabinet places as between the Prime Minister\rquote s party and qualifying non-government parties who accept the invitation even though a qualifying non-government party may have declined.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 It is only in the event that }{\b\fs24\ul\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 all}{\b\fs24\ul\insrsid4278564\charrsid11294437  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 qualifying parties decline the i
nvitation, that the Prime Minister has a free hand in determining the number of members of his or her own party or coalition of parties that may fill the places in Cabinet. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 111.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 The term }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 in proportion to their numbers in the House}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163  must be capable of application to the case where there is but one qualifying non-government party.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
So the entitlement of the Prime Minister\rquote s party is defined by reference to that same proportion.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 Applying the relevant ordinary meaning of }{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 proportion}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid11294437 "}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163  referred to above this me
ans that the proportion of Cabinet places held by the Prime Minister\rquote s party to the number of its seats in the House must be the same as the proportion of Cabinet places held by the qualifying non-government party to its numbers in the House.}{
\fs24\insrsid16672041\charrsid5248163 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {\fs24\insrsid16672041\charrsid5248163 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 112.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11294437 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 Let it be assumed that }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 PG}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163  is the number of House of Representatives\rquote  seats held by the Government party and }{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 P1}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163  is the number of seats held by a single non-government}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 qualifying}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 party.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 Assume}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 then}
{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 that}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 CG}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 is}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 the}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 number of Cabinet places allocate
d to the Government party (including places allocated to its coalition part}{\fs24\insrsid8936162\charrsid5248163 ners}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 ) and }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 C1}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
 is the number of places to be allocated to the qualifying non-government party.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 It follows that the requirements of section 99(5) are met if }{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 CG/PG =}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163  }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 C1/P1.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 When the Gov
ernment party has, as in the present case, 32 seats in the House and the }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 FLP }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 has 28 seats in the House, the number of their places in}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163 
 }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 the Cabinet must answer the relationship:}{\fs24\insrsid14373254\charrsid5248163  }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 CG/32 = C1/28. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 113.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 This relationship does not require the Cabinet to be composed only of members of qualifying parties.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
It would allow for the appointment of Independents or Senate members, provided they do not belong to any of the parties represented in the House of Representatives.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
But whether the Cabinet is composed only of members of qualifying parties or includes non-party appointments, the relationship between the number of seats held by the Government and qualifying non-government parties must remain the same.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 114.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5248163 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 Let it be assumed however that the Prime Minister decides t
o appoint a 36 member Cabinet composed only of members of the Government party and the one qualifying non-government political party which, in this case, is the }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 .}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 This introduces a new constraint into the calculation of entitlements.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 That is the total n
umber of places in Cabinet allocated to the Government and the }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 FLP }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 will be equal to the total number of places in Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 The numerical entitlements of the Government party and the }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid11294437 FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163  are then worked out by solving two simple linear equations.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid5248163  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid5248163 They are:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 {\b\fs24\insrsid8936162\charrsid15403042 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15403042 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 Equation 1}{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042 : }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
CG/32 = C1/28 
\par Equation 2:\tab }{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 CG + C1 = 36 
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 

\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
Applying these equations, and solving them by simple substitution, }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 CG}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042  is 19 and }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 C1}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
 is 17.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 That is, in a 36 member Cabinet composed only of members of qualifying parties the Government would be entitled to 19 places and the}{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042  FLP}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042  to 17. These proportions are the same as those produced by the arguments put on behalf of Mr Chaudhry.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 That is because the calculations done on his contentions are mathematically equivalent to those done on the approach to construction which is set out above.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 However, that equivalence only arises because of the assumption that the Cabinet can only be made up of the members of qualifying parties.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 If members of the Senate and Independents can be appointed to the Cabinet then a wider range of possibilities emerges than is contemplated by the submissions advanced for Mr Chaudhry.
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8936162\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 115.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx630\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 The obligation of the Prime Minister is to
 afford as many places in Cabinet to his party (including coalition partners) and to other qualifying parties as will ensure that their numbers in Cabinet bear, for each of them, the same proportion to their numbers in the House.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 If the present Prime Minister were to provide for a 36 member Cabinet he could appoint 17 from his Government party (including coalition party members).}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 To keep the proportions constant he would have to appoint }{\fs24\insrsid15403042\charrsid15403042 14.8}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042  rounded up to 15, from the }{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 FLP.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 This would leave him with 4 places which he could fill by appointing members of the}{\fs24\insrsid1402330\charrsid15403042  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 Senate who are not members of a political party or by appointing Independent members of the House of Representatives, or a combination of both.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx630\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 116.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx630\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 This option is plainly open to the Prime Minister.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
It is a necessary and sufficient qualification for appointment as a Minister that a person be a member of the House of Representatives or a member of the Senate.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
Section 99 provides for a multi-party Cabinet by providing for the parties to be represented in the Cabinet in proportion to their numbers in the House.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
For reasons developed more fully }{\fs24\insrsid7091413\charrsid15403042 above,}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042  section 99 does not prevent the appointment of additional non-party members to the Cabinet.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 To read it as preventing such appointments would be inconsistent with the width of the eligibility rule in section 99(2).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
Given that some constituencies may be represented by Independents and that persons of standing and experience may be appointed to the Senate who are not necessarily members of a political party, ther
e is no apparent constitutional purpose to be served by precluding the Prime Minister from appointing a person or persons in those categories into the Cabinet in appropriate circumstances.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 Such appointments could involve co-operative arrangements with the governing party.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx630\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 117.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx630\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 The final answer}{\fs24\insrsid7091413\charrsid15403042 s}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042  to question}{\fs24\insrsid7091413\charrsid15403042 s}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042  }{
\fs24\insrsid7091413\charrsid15403042 1 & 3 }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 in }{\fs24\insrsid7091413\charrsid15403042 the Reference are}{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
 not to be framed in terms of either of the principles propounded for the Prime Minister or Mr Chaudhry but in terms of a wider range of possibi
lities governed only by the specific requirement that the numbers of the Government and qualifying non-government parties in the Cabinet be in proportion to their numbers in the House of Representatives and subject ultimately to the overarching requiremen
t of fairness. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx630\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 {\fs24\insrsid7352737\charrsid15403042 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 The Relationship between Sections 99 and 64 of the Constitution
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 

\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 118.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx900\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
The construction proposed for section 99(5) is consistent with the words of section 64(2).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 That subsection governs the entitlements of qualifying non-government parties i
n relation to the number of nominees to be appointed to the Senate on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition pursuant to section 64(1)(c).}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
The 8 persons to be proposed for appointment must }{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 comprise such number of nominees of those parties as is propor
tionate to the size of the membership of those parties in the House of Representatives}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 .}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 For each of the parties therefore, the ratio between the number of its nominees and the number of its seats in the House must be the same. 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx900\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 119.\tab}}\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx900\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 {
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 Under section 64 only qualifying non-government parties can nominate for the 8 positions in the Senate proposed by the Leader of the Opposition.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 This is what this Court held in its 1999 Opinion.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 In essence, that is because the position of government parties is covered by the P
rime Minister\rquote s power of nomination referred to in section 64(1)(b) under which he or she can nominate 9 persons.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
The fact that section 64(2) only relates to nominees of qualifying non-government parties does not affect the conclusion that the concept of p
roportionality as between those parties spelt out in section 64(2) is the same as the concept of proportionality which operates in section 99(5) as between the Government party and all qualifying non-government parties.}{
\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 That conclusion is consistent with the observation of this Court in its 2002 Opinion when it said of section 64(2):
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\jclisttab\tx900\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 {\fs24\insrsid16519195\charrsid15403042 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\tqc\tx360\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15403042 {\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042 "}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
We consider that the proportion to which the subsection refers is the proportion the size of one qualified party bears to another or others}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid16331269\charrsid15403042 .}{\b\i\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042 "}{
\b\i\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 
\par }\pard\plain \s18\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\nooverflow\faroman\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 \i\f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16519195\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 120.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx540\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15403042 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 The identity of approaches
 to proportionate representation in section 64(2) and section 99(5) is unaffected by the fact that in section 99(5) the Prime Minister does not issue an invitation to his or her own party.}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid15403042  }{
\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid15403042 Entitlements of the invited parties, for the reasons already given, are defined by words which necessarily define the entitlement of the Prime Minister\rquote s party.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7356690 {\b\fs24\insrsid8936162\charrsid7356690 
\par }{\b\fs24\insrsid2439168\charrsid7356690 Answers to the Questions Referred}{\b\fs24\insrsid4278564\charrsid7356690 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1195131 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\kerning28\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {
\b\f0\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\kerning0\langnp2057\insrsid2439168\charrsid1195131 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang3081\langfe1033\langnp3081\insrsid14370346\charrsid7356690 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 121.\tab}}\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\jclisttab\tx900\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls27\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7356690 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7356690 For the preceding reasons the Court\rquote 
s answers to the referred questions are}{\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid7356690  }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid7356690 as follows:
\par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12474949 \f1\fs24\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14370346\charrsid1195131 

\par }\pard\plain \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12474949 \fs20\lang3081\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp3081\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 Question 1(1)}{
\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 :}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949  \tab }{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 "}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 No}{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 "}{
\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 Question 1(2)}{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 :}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 
\tab }{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 "}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 Yes, but only if the Cabinet is composed entirely of members appointed from political parties represented in the House of Representatives.}{
\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 "}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 Question 1(3)}{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 :}{\b\fs24\insrsid1402330\charrsid12474949 
\tab }{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 "}{\b\fs24\insrsid1402330\charrsid12474949 Yes,}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949  the words refer to the proportion which the number of places which each party,
 including the Government Prime Minister\rquote s party, is allocated in the Cabinet bears to the membership of that party in the House of Representatives.}{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 "}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 Question 2}{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 :}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 
\tab }{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 "}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 From time to time as the composition of the House of Representatives changes.}{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 "}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949  

\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 Question 3}{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 :}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 
\tab }{\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 "}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 
The FLP is entitled to a number of places in the Cabinet which bears the same proportion to its membership of the House of Representatives as the number of places occupied by the SDL bears to its membership of the House of Representatives.}{
\b\fs24\insrsid1195131\charrsid12474949 "}{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid11893858\charrsid12474949 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 Hon Justice Daniel Fatiaki
\par President of Supreme Court
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid7352737\charrsid12474949 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 Hon. Justice Keith Mason
\par Judge of Supreme Court
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 Hon. Justice Robert French
\par Judge of Supreme Court
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12474949 {\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid12474949 Hon. Justice Mark Weinberg
\par Judge of Supreme Court
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid16261034 {\fs24\insrsid7352737\charrsid16261034 
\par }{\b\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid16261034 Solicitors:
\par }{\fs24\insrsid14370346\charrsid16261034 Office of the Attorney-General, Suva for the First Interested Party
\par Messrs. G.P. Lala and Associates, Suva for the Second Interested Party 
\par }}