Restoration of the GCC does not seek to place indigenous rights above those of other communities - Ditoka

The restoration of the Great Council of Chiefs does not seek to place indigenous rights above those of other communities according to Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Sakiasi Ditoka.

While quoting the late Justice Jai Ram Reddy, Ditoka says the GCC is a body for all people who call Fiji home.

In his response to President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere’s opening speech in Parliament, Ditoka says the President recognized the rights of the indigenous people of Fiji.

Ditoka says he celebrates the decision to restore the GCC, traditionally the apex of the vanua.

He says the recent “veisiko” or visitation to the President by the Vanua of Bau and viral picture of Turaga i Taukei Bolatagane and the Turaga Taukei Mataiwelagi expressing themselves in joyful greeting is a beautiful reminder of the good times we have ahead of us.

The Minister further says they have had a long and gruelling campaign and harsh words have been exchanged by all parties.

He says it is now time to pool resources and work together for the good of our beloved Fiji.

Meanwhile, Ditoka has also confirmed his Ministry is embarking on the process to develop the National Rural Development Policy which will guide and set the model, concepts and strategies for rural and maritime development in Fiji.

He says Rural Development Policy can be broadly defined as all aspects of state action that, directly or indirectly, influence the nature of economics and social development in rural areas.