The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) is calling for the abolition of Fiji’s 2013 Constitution, branding it a significant barrier to indigenous development and the rights of the iTaukei people. GCC chairman Ratu Viliame Seruvakula emphasized the council’s unanimous decision, describing the Constitution as a “roadblock” to progress and an impediment to improving the lives of the iTaukei community.
Ratu Viliame stated that with ongoing Supreme Court challenges against elements of the Constitution, the GCC is preparing a plan for further action should these legal efforts fail. “We want this Constitution gone. We’ve had enough with it,” he declared, highlighting the council’s frustration with how it restricts their initiatives aimed at enhancing the socio-economic conditions of the iTaukei.
The GCC’s position aligns with a broader narrative of advocating for reform, which includes restoring their power to appoint Fiji’s President and addressing crucial issues such as poverty, which affects nearly 75% of the iTaukei population despite their substantial land ownership. They are also focusing on calls for improved governance structures at the village level in order to combat rising social issues, including violence against women, which has recently drawn international scrutiny.
Moreover, reflecting on the urgency of these reforms, Ratu Viliame noted the importance of reinstating opportunities like educational scholarships for iTaukei youth to empower future generations.
The council remains optimistic about their mission, stating their commitment to mobilizing discussions that can lead to a more equitable governance framework. This proactive stance suggests a hopeful outlook for meaningful dialogue and actions that can contribute to an inclusive and fair representation of the iTaukei within Fiji’s governance systems.
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