The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) recently completed a two-day gathering at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, where they unified in their demand for a comprehensive review of Fiji’s 2013 Constitution. The chairperson, Ratu Viliame Serubakula, emphasized the necessity for constitutional changes to bolster the rights of the iTaukei people, enhance village governance, and address urgent national issues such as violence against women.
A pivotal request from the chiefs includes restoring their authority to appoint Fiji’s President—a power that was eliminated with the establishment of the 2013 Constitution. Ratu Viliame expressed discontent with the current selection process, which he believes limits the traditional influence of chiefs in determining the nation’s Head of State.
The GCC has highlighted a need to reevaluate the Constitution’s “common identity” clause. This clause designates all citizens as “Fijians,” regardless of their ethnic background. Many iTaukei individuals feel that this uniformity obscures the unique socio-economic challenges they face. Ratu Viliame echoed their sentiments, stating that they seek to create a more equitable environment, as the existing system does not adequately reflect the real conditions of the iTaukei people.
A concerning statistic presented by the GCC revealed a substantial 75 percent of the iTaukei population lives in poverty, despite their ownership of a significant portion of Fiji’s land. Ratu Viliame argued that the constitutional framework complicates their ability to effectively capitalize on these resources, necessitating economic reforms aimed at empowering indigenous communities.
The chiefs also called for a reevaluation of village bylaws to improve local governance and address pressing social issues such as drug abuse, advocating for stability within rural regions. Additionally, rising domestic violence rates in Fiji, which have attracted international scrutiny, were marked as a grave concern. The chiefs vowed to work collaboratively with the government and stakeholders to tackle this pressing issue.
To foster educational advancements, the GCC proposed reinstating the iTaukei Affairs Board scholarship for iTaukei youth, promoting greater educational access. While they acknowledged the complexities involved in constitutional reform, the council remains steadfast in their mission, planning to establish a dedicated group to explore the viability of the proposed changes.
In summary, the Great Council of Chiefs is advocating for pivotal constitutional reforms that aim to enhance the rights and welfare of the iTaukei community while addressing crucial social issues facing Fiji. Their determination to initiate these changes signifies a hopeful step toward greater equity and representation within the nation.
This commitment to reform reflects a growing consciousness of the need for inclusive governance and better socio-economic conditions, laying the groundwork for progress and unity among all Fijians.
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