The Great Council of Chiefs has announced the need for amendments to the 2013 Constitution. During a media briefing following the first day of their meeting in Suva, Chairperson Ratu Viliame Seruvakula emphasized that many laws affecting the i-Taukei people need adjustments to ensure their interests are adequately represented.
He noted that approximately 33 laws directly influence the i-Taukei community. While 16 of these laws have seen amendments, the remainder are still under review. Seruvakula urged the government to take action to facilitate these necessary changes.
“There is still a significant list of laws that are either currently in place or undergoing review,” he remarked. He also shared insights from Solicitor-General Ropate Green Lomavatu, who informed the members about various legislations that have been amended or are awaiting review.
Seruvakula acknowledged the complexity of the process, stating that changes cannot be implemented overnight. He encouraged stakeholders to work with existing laws and resources, indicating that this task is ongoing and requires patience and adaptability.
The meeting is set to continue this afternoon, suggesting a commitment to discussing these critical issues further, which may lead to constructive outcomes for the i-Taukei community.
This initiative signifies a proactive approach by the Great Council of Chiefs to engage with the legislative process and seeks to improve the legal framework impacting their community. As discussions progress, there is potential for collaborative efforts that could lead to a more inclusive and representative governance structure in the future.
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