The recent reopening of the Great Council of Chiefs has sparked a call to revisit the 2013 Constitution, as noted by Justice Ministry Assistant Minister Ratu Josaia Niudamu. Speaking at the Ra Provincial Council meeting, he emphasized the significance of this movement, particularly highlighted by the participation of paramount chiefs, including the Marama Bale and Turaga Bale.
Ratu Josaia mentioned that the collective submission from the chiefs has been presented before the Supreme Court, advocating for a legal process to review and amend the Constitution. This push aims to ensure that any changes reflect the voice of the people rather than being dictated by a singular authority, a model prevalent in Fiji’s governance for the past 16 years.
He underscored the vital role of community leaders in guiding the youth and stressed the importance of passing down wisdom through traditions, stories, and practices of their ancestors. “Our elders passed on their wisdom to each one of us,” he noted, highlighting that this guidance is crucial in fostering a peaceful and promising future.
A significant concern raised by Ratu Josaia was the impact of modern distractions on family engagements, stressing the need to strengthen community ties. He urged leaders to reflect on their responsibilities and to focus on nurturing the younger generation, ensuring that they receive positive guidance amidst contemporary challenges.
The recent discussions concerning constitutional reform echoed sentiments shared by GCC chair Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, who has also called for a review of the Constitution to bolster the rights of the iTaukei community and tackle pressing national issues, including violence against women. The chiefs’ call aligns with an emerging consensus on the need for a more inclusive governance framework that acknowledges the diverse challenges faced by different ethnic groups in Fiji.
This movement for constitutional revisitation holds promise for greater representation and engagement from the community, signaling a hopeful direction toward a more democratic and equitable future for all Fijians. The collaborative effort among community leaders to address these issues through constitutional reform emphasizes the potential for impactful change in the nation.
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