Fiji’s Great Council of Chiefs Urges Review of 2013 Constitution Amidst Law Updates

The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) has expressed hope that the 2013 Constitution will undergo a thorough review in the near future. In a recent meeting, GCC Chair Ratu Viliame Seruvakula reassured members that the Solicitor General had addressed many of their concerns regarding various laws embedded within the constitution.

Understanding The Main Concept

The GCC’s desire for a constitutional review stems from the updates made to 33 laws impacting the iTaukei population. Of these, 16 have been revised, while the remaining 17 are still under review. According to Ratu Viliame, this ongoing process is crucial for the iTaukei Administration and economic empowerment.

Key Highlights of the Meeting

During the meeting, GCC members discussed two key papers: the review of the iTaukei Administration and the economic empowerment paper. The members overwhelmingly agreed with the recommendations made by the Committee, although some concerns were also raised, which the Secretariat has taken note of.

The Importance of Constitutional Review

Ratu Viliame emphasized the need for patience in this process, as removing laws takes time. However, he acknowledged that the Solicitor General had provided valuable insights into the complexities involved. The GCC’s efforts to review and update the constitution aim to ensure that the iTaukei population benefits from these changes.

Current Status of Law Updates

Here is a breakdown of the current status of law updates:

• 16 laws have been revised, with significant progress made in this area.
• 17 laws remain under review, with ongoing discussions between the GCC and the Secretariat.
• The iTaukei Administration has been impacted by these changes, with efforts underway to strengthen its functions.

Challenges and Opportunities

The constitutional review process presents both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, it offers a chance for Fiji to re-examine its laws and create a more equitable society. On the other hand, the complexity of the process demands careful consideration and planning.

A Path Forward

The GCC’s commitment to reviewing the 2013 Constitution demonstrates their dedication to ensuring that the iTaukei population benefits from these changes. As the process moves forward, it is essential to maintain open communication and collaboration between stakeholders. By working together, Fiji can create a brighter future for all its citizens.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Great Council of Chiefs’ efforts to review the 2013 Constitution represent an important step towards creating a more just and equitable society in Fiji. As the process unfolds, it is crucial to remain committed to transparency, collaboration, and patience. By doing so, Fiji can build a brighter future for its citizens.

Future Directions

As the constitutional review process continues, the GCC will continue to work closely with stakeholders to ensure that the needs of the iTaukei population are addressed. In the coming months, we can expect significant progress in this area, with ongoing discussions and updates on the current status of law updates.

Call to Action

Fiji’s citizens are encouraged to engage in this process by sharing their thoughts and ideas. By working together, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.