Vacant chiefly titles a concern for the Govt – PM

The people of Lomaiviti Group today heard that the huge number of vacant chiefly titles in their province has been a concern for the Fijian Government.

While speaking at the Lomaiviti Provincial Council Meeting, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says he is concerned that from the 503 traditional positions in the Lomaiviti province, 341 are still vacant.

He reminded them about the old saying that "when the Vanua is stable, the development will not be an issue”.

Bainimarama says individuals who have not been confirmed by the iTaukei Lands Commission in the leadership positions, will have little or no mandate to speak for their Vanua.

He says the Government will not allow the leadership void in the Vanua to be exploited by any self-serving group and is pleading with the province to have these vacant positions filled.

Bainimarama adds that they should do it for the people, the Vanua and Fiji.

The Prime Minister also highlighted that $126.3 million has been used in the development and services in Lomaiviti from 2014 until 2021.

He says millions of dollars have gone to fund the free education grant and transportation assistance which means more children from the Lomaiviti Group can attend schools.

Bainimarama says over $24 million have been spent on maintaining the road network in Ovalau, Koro, and Gau.

He says they will continue with this and not slash the roads budget.

The Prime Minister adds they have also provided six boats to connect communities because Lomaiviti is a maritime province.

He says they also ensure regular service through the Government Shipping Franchise Scheme.

Bainimarama adds the government shipping services vessels are also on standby for any urgent requests such as the recent transport of building materials to Lamiti Village in Gau.

The Prime Minister says to ensure digital connection services are provided in Lomaiviti, Vodafone has spent $3.25 million over the last 4 years to upgrade its communication network in Wakaya, Levuka, Tokou, Naigani Island and Koro Island.