Bau Chief Calls for Review Commission to Identify Original Owners

A review commission should be established to identify the original traditional landowners across the country, Turaga na Roko Tui Bau, Ratu Timoci Tavanavanua, said.

He was responding to growing concerns over Government moves to return lands to rightful traditional landowners.

“Perhaps establishing a review commission to identify the original landowning units in Fiji would be a step towards addressing some of the historical injustices that was created thus promoting social justice and reconciliation,” he said.

“Such a commission could play a crucial role in examining historical records, oral histories, and other relevant documentation to determine rightful land ownership.

“This process would likely involve extensive research, consultation amongst the 14 provinces, and adherence to legal frameworks to ensure transparency and fairness.”

However, establishing a review commission would also require careful consideration of logistical, financial, and political factors, Ratu Timoci said.

“It’s essential to ensure that the commission operates independently, free from undue influence, and has adequate resources to carry out its mandate effectively.

“Additionally, there must be clear mechanisms for implementing the commission’s findings and recommendations to address any identified injustices and ensure that the rights of original landowners are respected and protected.”

Timelines

Land issues were always “very sensitive” because of its “very dear “ nature to the Itaukei’s heart, Ratu Timoci said.

“It is all they can identify with, therefore it will take time. In fact, it is very difficult to put a time frame to it. One only has to look at the number of vacant chiefly positions that have been vacant for years.”

If this is anything to go by, “you can imagine how long it will take to identify the rightful owners of the leased land that the Government intend to return to them,” Ratu Timoci said.

“I don’t think it is necessary to bring people in from abroad, as we have people with the right skill sets, knowledge and experience to carry out this exercise,” he said.

The core role of iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) is to secure, protect and manage land ownership rights assigned to the Itaukei landowners.

It facilitates the commercial transactions that revolve around its use.

“I think this falls outside their ambit, but they still can be part of the whole process,” Ratu Timoci said.

“Notwithstanding this, I think there has to be a concerted effort from the Ministry of Lands, Ministry of iTaukei Affairs (NLC) Ministry of Justice, and other stakeholders to ensure that due process is adhered to.”

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