Talk of resurrecting the controversial iQoliqoli Bill by the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) has not gone down well with other political parties.

The bill, proposed by the Soqosoqo Duavata Lewenivanua (SDL) Government in 2006, aimed to transfer proprietary rights of beaches, lagoons and reefs to their iTaukei tribes owners. The proposal by then SDL Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase caused turmoil and controversy because of the legal issues involved. Much was said about the potential damage to tourism and investment because of the discriminatory plan.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama had previously criticised the bill as ‘racially discrimatory’ and having no place in the ‘new Fiji.’

Rewa paramount chief Ro Teimumu Kepa was quoted on FijiVillage yesterday saying the iQoliqoli rightfully belonged to the iTaukei but that consultations with all stakeholders would take place.

The National Federation Party says it maintains its initial opposition to the bill.

“We had challenged it when it was first proposed in 2006. We considered it unconstitutional as per the 1997 Constitution and our objections were presented to the parliamentary sector committee,” said NFP general-secretary, Kamal Iyer.

The Fiji Labour Party also objected to the introduction of the Bill in 2006. Embattled FLP leader, Mahendra Chaudhry was unavailable for comment yesterday, however the party was clear in its opposition to the bill when it was first proposed.

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) believes discussing the Bill was too premature, says party president Lynda Tabuya.

“PDP doesn’t really have a stand on the issue. Our priority is to help take the country back to democratic rule. It’s a bit too controversial and has the potential to cause instability,’’ she said.

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