Fiji's President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau has given his assent to a new constitution, saying its signing marks a new beginning for the country.
"It is the constitution we had to have for us to join the ranks of the world's great democracies," he said.
"For the first time, under the terms of this constitution, every Fijian has a voice and I am assured that voice will be heard next year without hindrance.