Fiji’s newly inaugurated President, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, delivered an impactful message to the chiefs of Fiji, urging them to take greater responsibility and lead by example. In his inaugural address at the State House, he emphasized the necessity of self-reliance and proactive leadership among village leaders.
Addressing a delegation from the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC), Ratu Naiqama underscored that for chiefs to be truly respected and effective, they must demonstrate self-sufficiency. He stated that a strong chief needs to be self-dependent to serve as a credible leader to their community. His remarks came just before the start of a two-day GCC meeting in Suva.
“When a chief is strong, they must not only ask their community to contribute but be the first to do so, both in actions and resources,” he said, advocating for active participation in initiatives like fundraising efforts within villages. Ratu Naiqama criticized what he referred to as a “free-rider” mentality among some chiefs, asserting that effective leadership requires hard work and commitment.
He also highlighted the role of education in leadership, noting that chiefs should be well-educated to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. A call for integrity was made, as he insisted that a chief’s words and actions must align.
This message carries a hopeful sentiment for the future of Fijian leadership. By encouraging chiefs to embody strong leadership qualities, the President sets the stage for potential positive changes within communities across Fiji. A focus on self-reliance and accountability could lead to greater empowerment for both leaders and their people, fostering a strong sense of community engagement and cooperation.
Ratu Naiqama’s vision for leadership presents an opportunity for a renewed commitment among chiefs, paving the way for enhanced governance and social cohesion in Fiji.
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