Mahendra Chaudhry, the leader of the Fiji Labour Party (FLP), has highlighted the importance of the Bose Levu Vakaturaga (Great Council of Chiefs) endorsing a national agenda that promotes Fiji’s orderly progress and encourages a serious dialogue on improving race relations in the country. His comments came in response to Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, the chairperson of the council, who has advocated for constitutional reforms.
Chaudhry expressed concerns regarding misconceptions about the iTaukei community, urging that they should not be perceived as a vulnerable group needing additional protections beyond those already afforded by Fiji’s constitutions since independence. He emphasized that the rights of the iTaukei—pertaining to cultural heritage, land ownership, and economic resources—are well-protected and that their community is robustly integrated into the fabric of Fijian society.
He made a distinction between the iTaukei and indigenous populations in other countries, such as the Aboriginals of Australia or the Maori of New Zealand, citing the significant representation of iTaukei individuals within civil services and the government as evidence of their standing in society.
Chaudhry’s remarks align with previous discussions from the Great Council of Chiefs, which seeks to undertake a comprehensive review of the 2013 Constitution. The council has expressed dissatisfaction with existing provisions, advocating for revisions that would better reflect the realities and rights of the iTaukei community in light of current socio-economic challenges.
Amid these discussions, there is a collective optimism that reforms could address the issues facing the iTaukei while also promoting unity among Fiji’s diverse ethnic groups. Chaudhry’s push for improved race relations is a positive step towards fostering inclusivity and understanding, nurturing hope for a future in which all communities can thrive together in equity and harmony.
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