Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has firmly dismissed claims that the reinstated Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) is a barrier to the socio-economic advancement of indigenous Fijians. In a recent interview with The Fiji Times, he stressed the GCC’s essential role in fostering unity among diverse communities in Fiji.
Rabuka expressed that the GCC is vital for promoting an inclusive national development agenda that benefits all Fijians. He highlighted the council’s contributions to government initiatives concerning economic development and social security, particularly in addressing crime prevention issues.
Having been reinstated last year, the GCC is seen as a crucial element in strengthening social cohesion within Fiji. In light of comments made by Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry, who urged the GCC to enhance race relations and contribute to national development, Rabuka reaffirmed the importance of constructive dialogue. Chaudhry has pointed out the need for the GCC to foster better race relations while critiquing certain proposed constitutional amendments. These discussions underline the importance of recognizing the evolving status of the iTaukei community.
The dialogue surrounding the GCC’s role signifies a deeper acknowledgment of the necessity for inclusive governance and the protection of indigenous rights in Fiji. Rabuka’s support for the GCC reflects its historical significance and its potential to address current challenges in Fiji’s multicultural society.
Looking ahead, both the leaders and the GCC are poised to engage in reforms that promote unity and mutual understanding among Fiji’s varied populations. This represents a hopeful prospect for strengthening socio-economic conditions for all Fijians and bridging divides across ethnic lines, ultimately working towards a more cohesive and harmonious nation.
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