Former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has called on the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) to prioritize the promotion of better race relations as a means of gaining the confidence of all Fijians in this multi-racial and multi-cultural nation. His comments were made in response to GCC Chair Ratu Viliame Seruvakula’s statement regarding proposed constitutional changes, where Chaudhry raised concerns about the repeated attempts to amend the constitution without recognizing the evolving status of the iTaukei community, asserting that they are not an endangered demographic.
Ratu Seruvakula emphasized the necessity for constitutional amendments to ensure the rights of indigenous Fijians are adequately represented and that they were not consulted during previous changes. He pointed out that some existing laws, rooted in colonial history, continue to restrict the iTaukei’s ability to negotiate fair agreements concerning their resources, sparking ongoing debates about socio-economic challenges and cultural identity.
Chaudhry asserted that the GCC needs to focus on supporting a national agenda that fosters the orderly development of Fiji, noting that the iTaukei community is resource-rich and holds significant positions within civil service and government. He highlighted the potential missteps in leadership if the chiefs perceive themselves as lagging behind other communities, urging a shift in focus towards self-improvement rather than constitutional protectionism.
This interplay highlights ongoing discussions surrounding the need for more inclusive governance and the acknowledgment of indigenous rights, paralleling other recent calls from the GCC for reform and dialogue designed to address significant issues affecting the iTaukei. This includes calls for legislative changes to tackle societal challenges such as drug abuse and domestic violence, along with advocating for an equitable representation of all ethnic groups in Fiji.
The GCC’s position aligns with attempts from the past aimed at reviewing constitutional frameworks. The discussions may pave the way for productive dialogue that could lead to reforms benefiting not only the iTaukei but also fostering unity and understanding among Fiji’s diverse communities, ultimately enhancing socio-economic conditions for all citizens.
This focus on reform underscores a broader commitment to creating a future where every community in Fiji can thrive, fostering hope for a more equitable and harmonious society.
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