De-established of GCC questioned

The decision and process to formally de-establish the Great Council of Chiefs has been questioned by a former Opposition Leader.

Mick Beddoes said he would like government to explain to the people for the sake of transparency what discussions and dialogue was undertaken and who were the people involved in the decision to end a 100 year old tradition and whether Government had the mandate of the people to do so.

He added that eliminating an esteemed institution like the GCC that has played many a critical role in Fiji’s history is a decision if not for the entire population, at the very least it should be a decision by the iTaukei community or an elected parliament.    

During the announcement of the de-establishment of the GCC, Commodore Bainimarama said the GCC is a product of our colonial past and Fiji must now focus on a future in which all Fijians are represented on the same basis.

He added if all Fijians are to have their say during the consultations for Fiji’s new constitution, people must ensure that every voice is equally heard and equally represented.

The Prime Minister said in 1875, the British created an elite body of iTaukei chiefs known as the Native Council to directly and indirectly implement its rule over Fiji.


Story by: William Waqavakatoga