The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) recently concluded a pivotal two-day meeting at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, where they collectively urged for a comprehensive review of Fiji’s 2013 Constitution. The chairperson of the GCC, Ratu Viliame Serubakula, highlighted the pressing need for reforms aimed at enhancing iTaukei rights, improving village governance, and tackling pressing national concerns, particularly the alarming rates of violence against women.
One of the central requests from the chiefs is for the restoration of their authority to appoint Fiji’s President, a privilege that was removed with the establishment of the 2013 Constitution. Ratu Viliame voiced his disappointment with the existing process, mentioning how it undermines the traditional role of the chiefs in selecting the nation’s Head of State. He emphasized, “We have identified areas requiring change,” asserting that while the journey ahead may be challenging, the chiefs remain steadfast in their pursuit.
The GCC also sought to reevaluate the Constitution’s clause on “common identity,” which designates all citizens as “Fijians,” regardless of their ethnic heritage. Many iTaukei community members feel that this unified identity overshadows the unique socio-economic difficulties they encounter. Ratu Viliame clarified their stance, “Our concerns are not discriminatory; rather, the current system doesn’t accurately reflect the realities faced by the iTaukei,” pointing to troubling statistics that indicate nearly 75% of iTaukei live in poverty, despite their significant ownership of Fiji’s land. He argued that constitutional limitations on their resources hinder economic opportunities for these communities.
The chiefs also advocated for an overhaul of village bylaws to promote enhanced local governance, aimed at addressing social challenges such as drug abuse and restoring community stability. Furthermore, they expressed serious concerns over rising domestic violence rates in Fiji, which have garnered international attention. “This is a pressing matter that we are committed to tackling collaboratively with the Government and other stakeholders,” Ratu Viliame stressed.
Another priority discussed was the reinstatement of the iTaukei Affairs Board scholarship, which would provide better educational opportunities for iTaukei youth. Acknowledging the complexities involved in constitutional reform, the council remains determined. Ratu Viliame concluded by stating that a dedicated working group will be formed to assess the feasibility of this review.
Overall, the GCC’s assembly signifies a proactive step towards addressing the historical and contemporary challenges faced by the iTaukei people while fostering a unified commitment to advance social and economic reforms in Fiji. Their dedication to voicing these concerns holds the potential for significant positive change in the community, paving the way for enhanced representation and empowerment.
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