The Bose Levu Vakaturaga (BLV) would remain desestablished until the Government saw the right time and need for its reinstatement, says iTaukei Affairs Ministry permanent secretary Naipote Katonitabua.

Mr Katonitabua made the observation last week at the village by-laws consultation at Tubou Village in Lakeba Island to address an issue raised by most districts reps who were calling for the return of the BLV.

“Therefore the BLV will not be part of the village by-laws consultation for the time being,” Mr Katonitabua said.

His answer which raised a few eyebrows was one of the highlights of the consultation for the 13 districts of the Lau group.

The Bose Levu Vakaturaga or Great Council of Chiefs, was disestablished by the Government because it was politicised, its traditional role usurped for political gain, and it did not service the interest of the iTaukei.

It was established by the British Colonial rulers and was not indigenous.

It was elitist and did not fit with equal citizenry or iTaukei development.

Totoya district representative Semesa Lesi said the return of the BLV would complete the need for change within the village by-laws and its consultation process for the iTaukei people.

He said what he called the failure of the iTaukei race was like watching a flock of birds roaming the airspace without a course.

“It is the reason why disagreements and dozens of new ideas and interpretations of land owners are now causing a great rift between sub-clans in villagers around the country,” Mr Lesi said.

He said this was the reason where most cases, that were clear within the iTaukei ministry and VKB were being dealt with at the courthouse when it could be resolved by the iTaukei ministry.

“The absence of the chiefly system or its institution has seen this incident occurring over and over again,” he said.

“And to break down this system now will only break down the remaining ground that is the sanctuary of the iTaukei race and its great leadership roles.”

The second he said is the great years of the country’s history of enlightenment during the pre-colonial history.

“The chiefs led the sanctity of religion among its people,” Mr Lesi said.

He said within that circle education was formed to enhance the transformation that took place within the iTaukei race.

“If the theology of the three legged stool had dropped the clubs from the iTaukei’s bloodied hands, then it is time that the Government really look at the stand it has with the Vanua, the BLV and the church,” he said.

Edited by Rusiate Mataika

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