This was not the case between 1987 and 1997; after the Coups of 1987, Fiji was expelled from the Commonwealth, but rejoined after the promulgation of a new constitution in 1997.
From 1987 to 1997, Fiji's status within the Commonwealth was distinct. Following the coup d'état of 1987, Fiji was removed from the Commonwealth; however, it was reinstated after a new constitution was adopted in 1997.