Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga says its review of laws affecting iTaukei land, resources and traditional institutions is aimed at strengthening rights and correcting past concerns, while Opposition MP Jone Usamate says any changes must be based on truth and goodwill and should clearly benefit iTaukei people.
While delivering his ministerial statement, Turaga says 26 laws introduced between 2007 and 2022 had been identified for review, with nine already repealed, amended or superseded.
Turaga says the Government's approach is anchored in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and that reforms must be undertaken through consultation and within Fiji's constitutional and legal framework.
While responding in the iTaukei language, Usamate says Opposition MPs are ready to assist with the review but questioned the need for changes that could create fear or uncertainty among iTaukei communities.
He says no iTaukei land was sold between 2007 and 2022 and highlighted developments during the period, including improved access to electricity and water, bridge construction and changes to the administration of iTaukei land and lease money.
Usamate is urging the Government to ensure any changes to existing laws preserve measures that have benefited iTaukei people.
He also welcomed the re-establishment of the Great Council of Chiefs but called on the Government not to politicise chiefs and traditional leaders.
Turaga then says Government will not trade one injustice for another and that reforms must address legitimate grievances without creating new legal uncertainty for landowners, families and communities.
He says the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Bill 2025 is before the Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights, while work is also progressing on the Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Expressions Bill.
Turaga adds that the Constitutional Reform Commission had completed its nationwide consultations and is finalising its report for submission to the President on the 31st of this month.
