The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) Chair, Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, has addressed the complexities surrounding the recommendation that each of Fiji’s 14 provinces should have a female representative. He emphasized that due to the specific criteria set out in the GCC’s Standing Procedure, it may not be feasible to enforce a mandate for a woman to be present.
Seruvakula noted that there are two main requirements for representation: individuals must not be affiliated with any political party and must be officially registered in the Vola Ni Kawa Bula as a Turaga ni Vanua, Turaga ni Yavusa, or Turaga ni Mataqali. While the GCC is supportive of female representation, this structural limitation poses challenges.
He encouraged communities to consider inviting a female representative if one exists within their respective groups. When asked whether legislative changes could facilitate women’s representation, Seruvakula acknowledged that legislation is crafted by humans and suggested that where there’s a determination to change, solutions can be found.
Seruvakula also commented on the possibility of renaming the ‘Bose Levu Vakaturaga’ to a more neutral term, expressing skepticism about any imminent changes.
This conversation highlights the ongoing dialogue around women’s representation within traditional structures, reflecting both challenges and the possibility for gradual progress in inclusivity. It’s crucial for communities to keep advocating for gender representation while navigating the established systems, fostering hope for a future where this representation can become more normalized.
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