On October 10, 1874, Fiji entered a significant new chapter in its history as 13 of the nation’s highest-ranking chiefs signed the Deed of Cession, ceding sovereignty of the islands to Great Britain. This marked the commencement of a colonial era, but also led to the establishment of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC), a vital institution that would shape Fijian identity and governance.
Rooted in Clause 7 of the Deed, the GCC recognized chiefly authority within a colonial framework while also serving as an advisory body to integrate traditional Fijian governance with British systems. The acknowledgment of chiefs’ rights was critical, allowing them to maintain influence despite the drastic changes taking place within the islands.
The British Charter formalized Fiji as a colony in 1875, leading to the creation of provincial administrators known as Roko Tui, appointed by Fiji’s first governor, Sir Arthur Hamilton Gordon. These leaders were tasked with managing native affairs and ensuring that British policies were attuned to the interests of the Fijian population.
As the council evolved, it played a significant role in introducing the 1876 Native Affairs Ordinance, which established a governance structure beneficial for indigenous Fijians and initiated one of the first demographic censuses in the islands. The council also recognized the economic potential of sugarcane and authorized the creation of sugar mills to support local prosperity.
Despite facing limitations imposed by colonial governance, the council maintained a collaborative relationship with the British Crown. Chiefs continued to acknowledge Queen Victoria as their sovereign, and through Gordon’s strategic engagement with local structures, Fiji’s provincial governance system became more established.
The arrival of indentured Indian laborers in 1879, prompted by restrictions on Fijians working on plantations, also led to significant initiatives by the council, including the establishment of leadership schools for Fijian youth, aimed at fostering cultural preservation and leadership training.
In subsequent decades, the GCC became more engaged in national affairs, advocating for indigenous land rights and reflecting rising concerns over land security. This foundational work by leaders such as Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna was crucial, culminating in the 1940 Native Lands Trust Ordinance.
Over time, the council shifted focus to education and health, contributing to institutions such as Queen Victoria School and Twomey Hospital while helping steer Fiji toward independence in 1970. The adoption of new constitutions gave the council greater political power, enabling them to endorse candidates for the presidency and nominate senators.
The path post-independence was tumultuous, with political upheavals in 1987 and 2000 pressing the council into a stabilizing role during crises. Despite setbacks following the military coup of 2006—which led to the GCC’s suspension and later dissolution—the resurgence of the council began with a change in leadership after the 2022 elections, signaling a renewed commitment to the needs of indigenous Fijians.
The council has since been reinstated, leading to notable developments, including the appointment of Ratu Viliame Seruvakula as Chairman and the welcoming of new deputy chairpersons. The GCC recently reopened its traditional meeting house, marking a significant milestone in reconnecting with Fijian heritage.
Through recent meetings, the council has addressed key issues, including the proposed review of land and fisheries management and the establishment of an Indigenous Natural Resource Trust Fund. Calls to repeal the 2013 Constitution, viewed as an impediment to indigenous empowerment, reflect a movement toward revitalizing the rights and resources of the iTaukei people.
These developments evoke hope for the restoration of cultural identity and governance among the iTaukei, reinforcing the importance of dialogue and active participation in shaping a unified and equitable future for all Fijians. The legacy of notable figures like Ratu Sir Josefa Lalabalavu Vanayaliyali Sukuna continues to inspire the council’s work towards not only indigenous rights but broader national progress.
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