The Chairman of Fiji's Constitution Commission, Yash Ghai, has brushed off criticism from the leader of the Fiji regime that he is being pressured by NGOs and politicians.
Last week, Commodore Frank Bainimarama chided Professor Ghai in an interview with local media, saying he should not be holding private meetings with such groups.
He also reminded the five commissioners they hold quasi judicial positions and needed to be independent.
Professor Ghai says the Commission is just getting on with its work and trying to meet its deadline.
"I don't think it was as serious as it was blown up by the media. We continue our work, no pressure has been brought on me and people are making very frank statements, so I don't think people have taken very seriously the criticisms of the Prime Minister."
Professor Ghai says the Commission has received almost 300 submissions so far.
The Commission has this week started hearings in Nadi and other parts of the Western Division..
