The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) has taken a strong stance against the 2013 Constitution, describing it as a barrier to the progress of iTaukei rights and stating it has failed to serve the needs of the indigenous population. Chairman Ratu Viliame Seruvakula characterized the Constitution as a “roadblock” to development, and the council is now considering its next steps as a Supreme Court challenge unfolds.
In light of recent discussions, the GCC is advocating for significant reforms to better represent the iTaukei community’s interests. The council argues that the Constitution, as it currently stands, exacerbates socio-economic issues and inhibits the ability of iTaukei individuals to manage their natural resources effectively. This aligns with prior appeals from the GCC for amendments that enhance governance at the village level and address critical societal issues such as rising violence rates against women.
The chairman points to statistics revealing that nearly 75% of iTaukei people live in poverty, despite their land ownership, indicating a dire need for economic reforms that would empower these communities and better reflect their unique challenges. Additionally, the GCC is calling for the restoration of their authority to appoint Fiji’s President, a privilege removed under the current constitutional arrangement. They believe that acknowledging individual ethnic identities within the constitutional framework is essential for equitable representation.
The GCC’s persistent advocacy for a review of the constitutional structure illustrates a commitment to creating a more inclusive and fair governance system. By fostering constructive dialogue and collaboration among Fiji’s diverse groups, there is a hopeful outlook for addressing the socio-economic disparities faced by the iTaukei community, ultimately aiming for improved living standards and societal harmony overall.
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