Constitution consultation hears call for indigenous tribunal

A Taveuni villager is calling for a Deed of Cession Tribunal to address indigenous grievances and create economic opportunities similar to Māori settlement frameworks in New Zealand.

Semi Cagilaba made the submission during the Constitution Review Commission (CRC) consultation at the Somosomo Village Hall, Cakaudrove today.

He drew comparisons with the economic progress of Māori communities in New Zealand.

Mr Cagilaba said a tribunal would provide a formal platform to revisit historical grievances and ensure indigenous rights and interests were properly addressed.

“We need a proper system to look into our past agreements and how they affect us today,” Mr Cagilaba said.

“The Deed of Cession is not just history; it still has meaning for our people, and there should be a body to deal with those issues.”

He pointed to New Zealand as an example where Māori communities had benefited from structured processes addressing historical injustices.

“In New Zealand, the Māori people have become economically strong because their grievances were heard and settlements were made,” Mr Cagilaba said.

“Today, they are wealthy, they own businesses, land and resources. Why can’t we have something similar here?”

Mr Cagilaba said Fiji could learn from such models to empower indigenous communities and create long-term economic opportunities.

“If we have a tribunal, it can help bring justice and also open doors for development for our people,” he said.

“It’s about fairness and moving forward.”

The commission is currently conducting nationwide consultations to gather public views on possible constitutional changes, with submissions ranging from governance to indigenous rights and economic development.