Constitution review told to reconsider State ownership of minerals

Minerals found beneath iTaukei land should belong to landowners rather than the Government, the Constitution Review Commission (CRC) has been told.

Roko Tui Namosi, Ratu Paula Delaivuna, made the call during consultations on the review of the 2013 Constitution in Navua yesterday, saying it was time for indigenous landowners to have ownership and control of the resources found beneath their land.

Referring to the Mining Act 1965, Ratu Paula said that while land is owned by iTaukei landowners, minerals beneath it remain the property of the State.

“This arrangement should be reconsidered, and ownership of both the land and the minerals beneath it should rest with the landowners,” he said.

Ratu Paula said the issue had been a long-standing concern for many indigenous communities and should be addressed as part of the constitutional review process.

He also called for greater recognition and protection of iTaukei rights in the Constitution, saying the country's supreme law should better reflect the interests and aspirations of indigenous Fijians.

Ratu Paula further urged the commission to examine ways of sharing some of the powers currently held by the Prime Minister with Cabinet ministers, arguing that authority should not be concentrated in a single office.

He also raised concerns about the current electoral system, saying the commission should consider reviewing provisions relating to Fiji's voting system.

Ratu Paula said the Constitution must reflect the wishes of the people and respond to issues raised by communities around the country.

“I think it is now time to amend it,” he told the commission.

His submission was made during ongoing nationwide consultations by the CRC as it gathers public views on possible changes to the 2013 Constitution.