The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) has voiced strong opposition to any amendments to Fiji’s 2013 Constitution, advocating instead for its complete repeal. Paramount Chief Ratu Suliano Matanitobua emphasized this position in response to a recent demonstration by chiefs in Rakiraki, which he viewed as a “gesture of goodwill” reflecting the dissatisfaction with the current constitutional framework.
Ratu Suliano remarked, “We won’t vote for the amendment. We just want to take out the whole 2013 Constitution. No amendment.” He indicated that the existing legal framework hampers the indigenous iTaukei people’s access to and control over their resources, despite their substantial land ownership. “We are resource rich but are cash poor,” he added, illustrating the frustration felt within the community regarding economic restrictions imposed by current laws.
The divide between traditional leadership and the constitutional structure has grown since the 2013 Constitution’s enactment, which followed years of political turmoil in Fiji. Ratu Suliano expressed disappointment that a request from the GCC to partake in a Supreme Court hearing regarding the Constitution was turned down by Chief Justice Salesi Temo. Justice Temo stated that the GCC could express its concerns through accepted political intervening parties.
This stance aligns with earlier sentiments from GCC Chairman Ratu Viliame Seruvakula and others who have highlighted the Constitution as a barrier to the socio-economic development of the iTaukei community. Both leaders have called for significant reforms necessary to address the current inequalities and the plight of nearly 75% of iTaukei individuals living in poverty.
Despite the challenges ahead, the GCC remains hopeful for a constructive dialogue aimed at ensuring more equitable representation and addressing the pressing social issues such as domestic violence, which has recently garnered international attention. Their ongoing commitment to reform reflects a desire for meaningful legislative changes that could improve the lives of the iTaukei and foster a more inclusive future for all citizens of Fiji.
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