The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) is currently not ready to operate independently and achieve self-sufficiency, according to GCC chairperson Ratu Viliame Seruvakula. While discussions about autonomy are underway, Ratu Viliame emphasized the importance of addressing certain challenges before complete independence can be considered.
He stated that it is premature to push for an independent GCC at this stage. “After assessing the situation, we believe it’s a bit too early to establish full independence for the council,” Ratu Viliame noted. He pointed out that there are legal complexities involved, which cannot be resolved overnight, and reminded everyone that the council has only recently been reactivated after a 16-year hiatus.
The council’s revival is still in its early stages, with operations just resuming and personnel levels being very low. “When I started, it was just me in my office for about six months, speaking to myself. We don’t even have a secretary yet,” he explained. Ratu Viliame highlighted that the GCC is still in the process of re-establishing its framework, with internal assessments regarding iTaukei administration already in progress.
He mentioned, “There are still reviews taking place, and the dust hasn’t settled yet.” The chairperson projected that it could take until next year—or potentially longer—before the GCC can stabilize sufficiently to contemplate future autonomy seriously. “Perhaps by this time next year, or maybe in my third year, we’ll be in a better position to consider this,” he added.
This situation can be viewed as a positive step towards growth and stability. As the GCC focuses on rebuilding itself and addressing necessary legal and organizational aspects, there is an optimistic potential for a robust and self-sufficient council in the future. The process may currently be slow, but it lays the groundwork for a decisive and informed decision regarding independence down the line.
Leave a comment