At a recent media conference in Suva, lawyer Isireli Fa voiced significant concerns regarding the operations of the iTaukei Lands and Fisheries Commission (TLFC) and its management of the Tui Nadi land title. Fa pointed out that the TLFC had been misadvised about its authority, particularly in relation to claims that court intervention was not an option for addressing the commission’s decisions.
Fa clarified that the belief that the courts lacked authority over the TLFC’s actions was erroneous, insisting that all entities, including the commission, must abide by the law. He urged the Government to ensure its departments adhere to legal standards and to prioritize the involvement of seasoned legal practitioners in critical cases. Fa argued that reliance on inexperienced lawyers has caused unnecessary disputes and prolonged sufferings for individuals engaged in land title claims.
His concerns are set against a backdrop of ongoing challenges regarding land rights within the iTaukei community, echoing recent judicial verdicts, like those by High Court Judge Justice Mohammed Mackie, who nullified previous TLFC decisions related to the Tui Nadi title. This reinforces the vital role of judicial review in keeping the commission’s powers in check and guaranteeing fairness in land ownership issues.
Attorney-General Graham Leung recognized Fa’s expertise in native land law and expressed willingness to consider reforms. Fa’s call for a more professional approach to handling land rights legalities offers a positive prospect for achieving clearer solutions, balancing respect for tradition with strict adherence to the rule of law.
This ongoing discourse represents a broader engagement with indigenous rights and governance in Fiji. The potential for improved resolution of land disputes through cooperation between legal experts and local communities is significant. The focus on maintaining judicial oversight highlights a growing commitment to affirm the rights of indigenous peoples, fostering a hopeful outlook for justice and equity in land management.
Leave a comment