It is the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC), and not the military, that should be conferred the constitutional responsibility to serve as the guardian of the well-being of all the people of Fiji.
This is the sentiment of an academic at the University of Fiji’s School of Law and former permanent secretary, Jioji Kotobalavu.
The 2013 Constitution Section 131 (2) states “it shall be the overall responsibility of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces to ensure at all times the security, defence and well-being of Fiji and all Fijians”.
Mr Kotobalavu said if the GCC accepted this extended role, it would mean that while its primary responsibility will continue to be the protection of the collective interests of the iTaukei and Rotumans, it would henceforth be also concerned about the interests of other communities.
“No community should be treated unfairly or discriminated against,” he said.
“This is crucially important for building mutual trust and confidence among Fiji’s communities.
“Without this mutual trust and confidence, we cannot succeed in promoting national reconciliation and unity.”
He said the role of the GCC should also be included in the Constitution.
“I believe that in any future review of Fiji’s Constitution, the place and role of the GCC should be included in the Constitution. Providing for the GCC in an ordinary Act of Parliament is not enough.”
