The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) recently wrapped up a significant two-day assembly at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, where they put forth a collective demand for an extensive review of Fiji’s 2013 Constitution. Chairperson Ratu Viliame Serubakula highlighted pressing issues that require attention, such as enhancing the rights of the iTaukei community, improving village governance, and addressing critical national concerns including the growing incidents of violence against women.
A fundamental request from the chiefs is to restore their authority to appoint the President of Fiji, a privilege that was removed with the adoption of the 2013 Constitution. Ratu Viliame voiced his dissatisfaction with the current appointment process, noting it undermines the traditional role of the chiefs in selecting the Head of State. “We have identified areas requiring change,” he stated, emphasizing their commitment despite recognizing that the journey may be challenging.
The council is also calling for a reevaluation of the Constitution’s “common identity” clause, which labels all citizens as “Fijians,” regardless of their ethnic background. This uniformity is seen by many in the iTaukei community as an oversight of the unique socio-economic issues they face. Ratu Viliame asserted, “We seek a level playing field,” expressing a desire for representation and acknowledgment of their struggles.
Alarmingly, GCC highlighted that nearly 75 percent of iTaukei individuals live in poverty, even as they govern a substantial portion of the country’s land. Ratu Viliame pointed out that the current constitutional framework may exacerbate this situation by limiting their ability to capitalize on their resources, stressing the need for economic reforms to empower indigenous communities.
In addition to socio-economic reform, the chiefs advocated for a revision of village bylaws to strengthen local governance, aiming to combat issues such as drug abuse and restore stability in rural areas. They also expressed serious concern over increasing rates of domestic violence in Fiji, an issue of growing significance both locally and internationally. “Fiji ranks alarmingly high in cases of domestic violence against women. This is a serious issue that the chiefs are committed to addressing,” Ratu Viliame remarked.
Furthermore, the GCC proposed reinstating the iTaukei Affairs Board scholarship to improve educational opportunities for young iTaukeis. The chiefs, while acknowledging the complexities involved in constitutional reform, remain determined. “We understand that changing the Constitution won’t be easy;” Ratu Viliame conveyed, promising that a dedicated group will be formed to explore the feasibility of advancing this review.
This gathering of the GCC signals a proactive approach toward addressing longstanding issues and fostering meaningful change. With discussions centered around empowerment and community well-being, there is hope for a future where the iTaukei people’s rights are respected and strengthened within the national framework. By taking these steps, the chiefs aim not only to preserve their cultural identity but also to promote equality and advancement for all Fijians.
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