The Great Council of Chiefs Taskforce has recommended the inclusion of a female representative from each of the 14 provinces; however, GCC Chair Ratu Viliame Seruvakula has expressed reservations about the practicality of this requirement. In addressing the media, Seruvakula clarified that the GCC’s stance is not due to a lack of desire for women’s representation, but rather because the criteria for participation are quite restrictive.
To be eligible for representation, individuals cannot hold a position in any political party and must be registered in the Vola Ni Kawa Bula as either a Turaga ni Vanua, Turaga ni Yavusa, or Turaga ni Mataqali. Seruvakula emphasized these stipulations, which are outlined in the Standing Procedure of the Great Council of Chiefs. He also encouraged the provinces to consider inviting women who do meet these criteria to participate in GCC meetings.
When asked about the possibility of revising legislation to enhance women’s representation, Seruvakula remarked, “Legislations are man-made, and if there is a will, there is always a way.” However, he did not foresee any imminent changes to the naming of the ‘Bose Levu Vakaturaga’ to a more gender-neutral term.
This discussion highlights the ongoing challenges surrounding gender representation in governance. It underscores the importance of not only establishing frameworks for inclusion but also ensuring that these frameworks are accessible and inclusive of all potential representatives.
In a hopeful perspective, the dialogue around changing these structures signals a growing awareness and desire for inclusivity, and as such discussions continue, there may be future opportunities for meaningful change.
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