The Bose Levu Vakaturaga, also known as the Great Council of Chiefs, concluded a significant two-day meeting at the Vale ni Bose in Draiba, where traditional leaders took critical steps to promote indigenous land rights, legal reforms, and cultural preservation.
During the meeting, which involved representatives from the three confederacies of Kubuna, Burebasaga, and Tovata, leaders shared and adopted several resolutions addressing longstanding concerns. Notably, discussions focused on the Native Land Trust Act and the Native Lands Act, with President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu emphasizing the importance of reflecting deeply on the Deed of Cession and advocating for the establishment of a Tribunal to oversee relevant rights.
A pressing issue raised by the Burebasaga confederacy was the inconsistent registration of iTaukei children born overseas in the Vola ni Kawa Bula (VKB). This matter underscores the challenges of adapting policies to changing demographic realities and aims to ensure that children of the iTaukei community are adequately recognized in official registries.
Historical insights were also shared during the assembly, including the journey of the Fiji Pine Trust, which transformed into a significant landowner initiative with roots dating back to the late Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara’s support alongside New Zealand.
In response to the deliberations, a subcommittee has been formed under the Council’s guidance to further investigate the proposed Tribunal and address other legal challenges raised by the chiefs.
Past discussions from similar assemblies have shown a continuous commitment to reclaiming the rights and responsibilities of the iTaukei people. Earlier conferences have echoed calls for constitutional reforms to restore indigenous authority and improve governance, particularly regarding social issues such as domestic violence. The ongoing dialogue among traditional leaders indicates a robust dedication to uplifting the iTaukei community, fostering hope for a future where indigenous values and rights are respected and promoted.
The outcomes from this recent council meeting hold the potential to catalyze constructive changes aimed at enhancing the well-being of marginalized communities across Fiji, demonstrating a unified approach towards empowerment and reform.
Leave a comment